Benue indigenes living in Plateau State have declared support for Mike Kaase Aondoakaa’s governorship ambition ahead of the 2027 election, citing his public service experience and capacity to address poverty and economic hardship in Benue State.
The group made its position known on Thursday in Jos during a meeting with Jessica Aondoakaa, wife of the former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, where members of the Central Planning Committee (CPC) briefed her on preparations for Aondoakaa’s proposed visit to Benue people living in Plateau State on October 31, 2026.
The supporters said they believed Aondoakaa’s experience in public service and contributions to economic development positioned him to address the challenges facing Benue State.
Douglas Achala, the Chief of Igede on the Plateau, said the state needed leadership capable of improving the people’s economic conditions and promoting unity among its ethnic groups.
He said the shared interests of the various communities in Benue made it important for the people to support a leader committed to development and improved welfare.
Peter Amede, President of the Idoma people on the Plateau, also expressed confidence in Aondoakaa’s public service record, saying his experience could help address the state’s challenges if elected governor.
Amede called for unity among Benue people and urged the emergence of a government that would prioritise welfare, tackle poverty and create opportunities for economic growth.
Professor Emmanuel Hemba, chairman of the CPC, cited Aondoakaa’s reported role in establishing a rice-processing industry as an example of his interest in economic development.
Hemba said the state needed purposeful leadership capable of reviving economic activities, strengthening local industries and creating opportunities for residents.
“Benue people are suffering and need someone who can take them out of poverty. We believe Aondoakaa has the experience and capacity to provide the leadership the state needs,” Hemba said.
He urged the people to support leadership initiatives that could improve their living conditions and strengthen the state’s economy.
Responding, Jessica Aondoakaa said her husband’s background, education and relationships across Benue State’s political and cultural divides had shaped his leadership capacity.
She said she was willing to serve as a link between the group and her husband by communicating the concerns of Benue indigenes living outside the state.
Jessica identified accessibility, effective communication, consultation and willingness to listen to advice as important qualities of leadership, expressing confidence that her husband possessed the attributes needed to lead the state.
She urged the group to agree on a convenient time for the proposed October 31 visit, saying the meeting would provide an opportunity to deliberate on and coordinate arrangements for the engagement.
