The Benue State branch of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has rejected assertions that their 2027 governorship nominee, Chief Michael Aondoakaa (SAN), faces constitutional barriers to his candidacy. Party spokesperson Bright Antyo labeled these claims as deceptive fabrications manufactured by political rivals to damage Aondoakaa’s momentum.
Antyo asserted that Aondoakaa fulfills all criteria mandated by the 1999 Constitution. He highlighted that the candidate has never faced criminal conviction or indictment by any legal body since his tenure as Attorney General of the Federation ended in 2010. The party pointed out that Aondoakaa participated in earlier primaries in 2015 and 2022 without his eligibility being contested.
Referencing Section 285 of the Constitution, the party noted that any legal challenge regarding his nomination is now time-barred, as the mandatory 14-day window following the May 2026 primary has closed. The PDP emphasized that only constitutional provisions define eligibility and dismissed the current discourse as mere social media speculation.
The party maintains full support for Aondoakaa, citing his experience and integrity as vital for Benue State. Their upcoming campaign will focus on key areas such as economic revitalization, security, and agricultural reform.