The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Benue State has noted reports of a suit filed by four individuals seeking to stop its governorship candidate, Chief Michael Kaase Aondoakaa, SAN, from contesting the 2027 governorship election.
Ordinarily, we would not dignify such distractions with a response. However, for the benefit of the public, it is necessary to state that the plaintiffs are not members of the PDP and did not participate in the party’s consensus governorship primary election of May 24, 2026, which validly produced Chief Michael Kaase Aondoakaa, SAN, as the party’s candidate.
As the matter is before the court, we shall refrain from commenting on its merits. We are, however, not unaware of the growing desperation among certain political interests who appear uncomfortable with the widespread acceptance and momentum of the PDP candidate across Benue State.
For the avoidance of doubt, Chief Aondoakaa satisfied all constitutional requirements for election as Governor of Benue State under Sections 177 and 182 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended). He has never been convicted, arraigned or indicted for any criminal offence.
The Constitution is clear on the grounds for disqualification from elective office, and no individual or political group can expand those provisions through conjecture or political convenience. Once the Constitution has expressly set out the qualifications and disqualifications for office, opponents cannot invent new barriers simply because they are uncomfortable with a candidate’s growing acceptance among the electorate.
The PDP remains focused on engaging the people of Benue State and presenting practical solutions to the challenges confronting our state including the high rate insecurity which the Alia administration has failed to address.
We will not be distracted by political theatrics masquerading as genuine public interest litigation.
Signed:
Bright Yima Antyo
State Publicity Secretary
Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Benue State
September 23, 2026
