Former Attorney-General Accuses SGF of Leading PDP-APC Alliance in Benue State
Michael Kase Aondoaka, the former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, has alleged that the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, is at the forefront of establishing a strategic alliance between the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue State. This claim was made during a recent caucus meeting of the PDP held in Makurdi, the state capital, which saw the attendance of several influential politicians, including close aides of the SGF.
Mr. Aondoakaa also designated the former governor, Chief Samuel Ortom, as the deputy leader of this alliance. His remarks underscore a significant political shift as both parties navigate their future strategies in the region.
The caucus was notably attended by three gubernatorial candidates from the APC: Pius Akter, Secretary General of the Shippers Council of Nigeria; Sebastian Hong, and Matthias Ibuan, Executive Director of Finance and Accounting at the Federal Housing Administration. Their presence highlights the increasing collaboration between the two major political parties.
Clarifying the situation, Yomi Odunuga, the Media Assistant to the SGF, confirmed Senator Akume’s leadership role in the PDP/APC partnership. When pressed for confirmation, he simply stated that the reports about their collaboration are accurate.
In response to these developments, Sir Tersu Kula, the Chief Spokesman for Governor Hyacinth Aria, asserted that the governor remains steadfastly independent and focused on uniting the APC. Governor Aria, as the party leader in Benue, has actively engaged with various stakeholders, emphasizing that no one has been barred from contesting as he prepares for the 2027 gubernatorial election.
Kula expressed confidence in the governor’s ability to maintain support from the populace, highlighting that Aria’s engagements have been aimed at fostering unity rather than political entrenchment.
Meanwhile, Aondoaka appears to be re-establishing his ties with the PDP, actively participating in party activities over the past two years. He suggested that his consistent attendance at PDP rallies signals a desire to reconnect with the party. He praised Akume’s leadership in the alliance, asserting that both PDP and APC candidates are in discussions regarding upcoming elections.
Aondoaka’s remarks conveyed a sense of camaraderie among the aspirants, indicating a mutual agreement to cooperate when the election season arrives. He framed his political journey as a quest for direction, drawing parallels between his own experiences and those of others looking to return to their roots.
He expressed gratitude towards Ortom for his loyalty to the people of Benue, reiterating the importance of engaging leaders at the national level like Akume, who, despite commitments in Abuja, remains dedicated to fostering a political partnership that prioritizes the community’s interests.
In closing, Kula reiterated the governor’s intentions to unify the APC, stressing that efforts are ongoing to bring together various factions within the party. He cautioned against elements seeking to undermine the progress made under the current administration, emphasizing that under Governor Arya’s leadership, a brighter future for Benue is attainable.
