Ex-AGF Aondoakaa quits APC ahead of 2027 governorship bids

Former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Michael Aondoakaa, has announced his resignation from the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Aondoakaa made this known in a statement he signed and released to journalists in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, on Sunday.

Until his exit, he was among the leading governorship aspirants on the APC platform in Benue State.

He said his resignation, which took effect from March 28, followed extensive consultations with family, political allies, and supporters.

“While I remain grateful for the opportunity to serve and contribute to the growth of the party at various levels during my membership, prevailing circumstances have made it necessary for me to take this step in the overall interest of my people and democratic values.

“I wish to express my profound appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for the visionary leadership he has continued to provide for our nation as well as for the support and attention which Benue has enjoyed under his administration.

“I assure him of my continued loyalty to his Renewed Hope Agenda.

“Furthermore, I deeply appreciate the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, for the quality leadership he has provided to the APC family in Benue.

“I acknowledge his role in shaping the political landscape of our dear state and assure him of my enduring respect.

“Finally, I wish to sincerely appreciate the leadership and members of the party in Ushongo Local Government Area, the entire Benue and beyond for the cooperation and support extended to me over the years.

“The relationships built and experiences gathered remain invaluable,” he stated.

Although he did not reveal his next political move, Aondoakaa urged his supporters to remain calm and law-abiding.

“A new direction aimed at salvaging and repositioning Benue in the best interest of our people will be communicated in due course,” he said.

Aondoakaa joined the APC in 2015 after leaving the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). 

He had earlier contested the APC governorship primary in 2022 but lost to Hyacinth Alia, who later won the 2023 governorship election in Benue State.