Michael Aondoakaa, a former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, has parted ways with the All Progressives Congress, the party he joined in 2015. The decision was announced in a statement signed personally by Aondoakaa, which he shared with journalists in Makurdi, Benue State, on Sunday. His resignation took effect from March 28, 2026.
Aondoakaa's move follows careful reflection and consultations with his family, political associates, and supporters. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and contribute to the party's growth, but noted that prevailing circumstances necessitated the move in the interest of his people and democratic values. Aondoakaa also thanked President Bola Tinubu for his leadership and support for Benue State, and acknowledged the role of George Akume in shaping the APC's political landscape in the state.
Aondoakaa's resignation comes about two months after he participated in the APC's electronic membership revalidation exercise. His next move remains unclear, but he has assured his supporters that a new direction aimed at salvaging and repositioning Benue will be communicated in due course.
The former AGF had previously contested the APC governorship primary in Benue in 2022 but lost to the current Governor, Hyacinth Alia, and later unsuccessfully challenged the outcome in court. This latest development has sparked speculation that Aondoakaa may pursue the 2027 Benue governorship race.
President Bola Tinubu's leadership will be put to the test as the APC navigates the fallout from Michael Aondoakaa's resignation. Aondoakaa's decision to leave the party suggests that the APC's internal dynamics are still far from stable, particularly in Benue State where he was a leading governorship aspirant. The former AGF's comments about a new direction aimed at salvaging and repositioning Benue raise questions about his next move and whether he will contest the 2027 governorship election. The APC's ability to hold on to key figures like Aondoakaa will be crucial in determining its chances in future elections. The party's leadership will need to demonstrate its ability to retain talent and provide a clear vision for the future if it hopes to succeed in the 2027 polls.
