Chief Michael Aondoakaa, SAN, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) gubernatorial candidate for Benue State, has urged for security efforts to be detached from partisan interests. He emphasized that safeguarding citizens and their property remains a paramount duty that transcends political boundaries.
During a visit to the Abaashwa community in Guma Local Government Area to offer condolences following a fatal attack by suspected armed herders, the former Attorney-General of the Federation condemned the violence as intolerable. He expressed deep sympathy for the grieving families and those currently recovering from injuries.
Aondoakaa stated that residents of Benue deserve to inhabit their lands and conduct agricultural work without the constant threat of displacement or loss of life. He praised President Bola Tinubu for initiatives such as establishing a new Army Division in Makurdi and an 11 Brigade in Gboko, while also noting that better military welfare is crucial for success.
Highlighting the necessity of public cooperation, he urged citizens to provide security agencies with actionable information. He also acknowledged former Governor Samuel Ortom for his role in initiating the Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Establishment Law in 2017 to mitigate agrarian conflicts.
Concluding his remarks, the candidate called for a unified front involving traditional leaders, politicians, and security forces. Zaki Emmanuel Atoka, acting Tyoor of Nzorov, expressed gratitude for the candidate’s presence, noting that the support provided comfort to the victims’ families.
