by Christiana Gokyo, Jos
The Gubernatorial Candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) of Benue State, Mike Kaase Aondoakaa (SAN)-cum former Attorney-General of the Federal Ministry of Justice, has emphasized his commitment to preserving the identity and heritage of the Benue State.
He also promised to make a “significant difference” within a four-year term by focusing on unity and resisting external attempts to subvert local identity.
Speaking in Jos over the weekend, while addressing community residents in Jos, Aondoakaa further promised to promoting unity among minority tribes and maintaining cultural integrity
He ensured that political power is used with humility rather than as a tool for exploitation and advocating for a government that would respects the rule of law, regarding state funds.
He further identified insecurity as a primary threat to the collective well-being of the people, particularly affecting farmers, adding that there is a stated goal to reclaim farmland and establish a robust, unified security network to prevent attacks on individual communities.
“Reclaiming lands to allow farmers to return to production and secure the ‘food basket’ status of the region leveraging the state’s agricultural strength to increase economic influence and also would address the systematic theft of state resources by officials,” he disclosed
The PDP Governorship Candidatecriticized the current administration for mismanagement of funds, specifically alleging that state money is being treated as personal wealth, and calls for transparency in auditing and proper adherence to ministerial protocols for infrastructure projects like road construction.
According to him, his administration would end the practice of what he termed as “unauthorized spending” from state funds without revenue justification, while women would be empowered through cooperative societies and dedicated commissions.
While assuring that, his administration would restore the role and respect of community leaders in local governance, Mike Aondoakaa added that, they will ensure that audited accounts are published transparently so as to prevent overhead costs from exceeding actual service delivery.
He emphasized the importance of bringing influential community members and associates to witness the campaign, and expressed a desire to attract business investment by demonstrating strength and capability.
While calling for citizens to rise and defend their land against those, who wish to wipe out their cultural identity, the PDP Governorship Candidateargued that, while making friends is necessary, the community must not allow outsiders to take advantage of them.
“There is a strong emphasis on resisting external forces that attempt to subvert the nation’s heritage. There is the need to support Benue’s representation at the federal level,” especially mentioning Senator George Akume.
Aondoakaa (SAN) urged the community to separate politics from the necessity of supporting their leaders in high offices and advocated for respecting leaders like Dr. Samuel who have made sacrifices for the state. He believes that controlling local resources is essential for maintaining national respect.
While claiming that officials are withdrawing money directly from state funds without proper revenue processes, Aondoakaa highlighted a “lack of proper costing and legal procedures” in current government projects like road construction, and argued that state funds belong to the people and must be administered strictly according to the law.
He pledged to restore the roles of community leaders to help maintain social order and influence, and vows to improve legal processes and reduce prison congestion through better judicial practices, while his vision includes creating a more inclusive government that supports both local residents and the Diaspora.
In the same vein, the three Traditional Rulers of the Benue Communities in Jos – Idoma, Igede and Tiv – who spoke on behalf of their people, also emphasized the importance of unity among various ethnic groups in the State, especially “to unite the Idoma, Igede, Etilo, and other tribes” within Benue State, and ensure all people sit at the same table under his leadership.
They also expressed their desire for stability so that citizens can return to their ancestral lands and peace be restored to allow people to farm without fear.
They also called for traditional institutions to be strengthened, as they represent the government closest to the people. Prayers were offered for wisdom, good health, and success in the Governorship Candidate’s mission, and encouraged him to remain humble and maintain a spirit of service.