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By Tracy Moses
A former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Michael Kaase Aondoakaa, has asserted that the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, is spearheading a strategic alliance between the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue State.
Aondoakaa also identified the immediate past governor of the state, Chief Samuel Ortom, as the deputy leader of the alliance.
He made the disclosure during an Expanded Caucus meeting of the PDP in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, which was attended by key political figures, including close associates of the SGF.
Among those present were three APC governorship aspirants: Barr. Pius Akutah, Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council; Sebastian Hon, SAN; and Mathias Ibuan, Executive Director, Finance and Accounts, Federal Housing Authority.
When contacted for clarification, the SGF’s media aide, Yomi Odunuga, confirmed the development, stating unequivocally that Senator Akume leads the PDP/APC strategic partnership in the state. “Yes, he is,” Odunuga responded when asked to verify the claim.
Reacting, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Hyacinth Alia, Sir Tersoo Kula, said the governor is not perturbed by any form of political alliance, stressing that his focus remains on fostering unity within the APC.
Kula maintained that Governor Alia, as the party leader in Benue, has consistently engaged stakeholders through meetings, functions, and congresses, adding that the governor has not barred anyone from contesting against him in the 2027 governorship election.
According to him, the governor is confident in his administration’s performance and believes he enjoys the support of the people.
Meanwhile, Aondoakaa, who appears to be warming up to a return to the PDP, hinted at his intention through his consistent participation in PDP activities.
Speaking metaphorically, he suggested that his frequent visits to PDP gatherings over the past two years indicate a desire to rejoin the party.
He noted that Senator Akume, as leader of the strategic partnership, has been working diligently to ensure the alliance delivers tangible results for the people of Benue State.
Paying tribute to Ortom as the “deputy leader” of the alliance, Aondoakaa revealed that aspirants from both the PDP and APC have been holding discussions ahead of future elections.
“All the aspirants were present, those from the PDP and APC. We interacted as brothers, with a shared understanding that no one would undermine the process when the time comes,” he said.
Using an analogy, he likened his political journey to a sojourn, emphasizing the need for guidance upon returning home.
“If a son goes on a journey and keeps visiting home, it shows he intends to return. For over two years, I have been coming home. But I cannot return and immediately lay claim to any position. It is the elders who will decide where I fit in,” he said.
He acknowledged his past role in the PDP as Attorney General and Minister of Justice, noting that his return would be guided by party elders.
Aondoakaa expressed appreciation to Ortom for his steadfastness, stating that the former governor remained committed to the state despite opportunities to pursue other interests.
He also commended Akume’s efforts at the national level, noting that despite his responsibilities in Abuja, the SGF remains actively engaged in ensuring the success of the strategic alliance in Benue.
“Senator Akume is occupied in Abuja, but he is equally committed to building a strong foundation for the partnership to yield results that will benefit the people of Benue State,” he added.
In his response, Kula reiterated that Governor Alia is committed to unity within the APC and has continued to advocate peace and collaboration among party stakeholders.
“It is the governor’s desire that the APC functions as one united family. He has consistently brought stakeholders together for meetings and activities,” Kula said.
He added that the governor remains open to political competition and is confident in the progress his administration has made.
Kula, however, criticized some elements within the party, accusing them of attempting to reverse the gains recorded under the current administration.
“It is unfortunate that certain disgruntled individuals are eager to drag the state backwards, but under Governor Alia, a brighter future is within reach,” he stated.