Michael Aondoakaa, former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, has rejoined the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, citing personal ambitions to drive development in Benue State. He made the announcement during an interview on Arise Television's 'Morning Show' on Wednesday, describing the move as a homecoming since he served as AGF under a PDP-led federal government. Aondoakaa emphasized that his return to the party is not influenced by Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia or Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume. He stated his goal is to leverage increased funding from President Bola Tinubu's economic reforms to uplift rural communities in Benue.
Aondoakaa outlined plans to ensure the full implementation of existing state laws, including the anti-grazing law, and align Benue's development with the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. He stressed that his vision involves using available resources to provide food, shelter, and improved infrastructure. "It's just like I'm going home to where I was elevated to the position of Attorney General and Minister of Justice to pursue my personal dreams and ambition," he said. He added that activating relevant federal and state laws will enhance security and governance in the state.
Aondoakaa's return to the PDP is framed as a personal mission, yet it arrives amid growing political jostling in Benue and a national shift in economic policy. His claim of independence from Governor Alia and SGF Akume rings thin given both figures' influence in the state's current political landscape. If he expects to activate laws like the anti-grazing bill, he will need more than goodwill—he'll need political cover. For Benue residents, promises of rural transformation sound familiar; what matters now is whether past rhetoric will finally meet delivery.
