The 2027 governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Benue State, Michael Aondoakaa, has called on his supporters to remain calm and resist any attempt to provoke them into violence. This appeal comes after a viral video showed hoodlums burning campaign T-shirts bearing his image in parts of the state. Aondoakaa, a former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, made the statement in a personally signed address to journalists in Makurdi.
The incident has attracted widespread condemnation, with many describing it as an example of bitterness in politics. Aondoakaa emphasized that the destruction of campaign materials should not lead his supporters to abandon the principles of peace, tolerance, and rule of law that define his campaign. He expressed concern over the development, stating that it is unfortunate and could potentially undermine the movement.
Aondoakaa urged his supporters across Benue's 23 local government areas to avoid retaliation and refrain from destroying campaign materials belonging to other political parties. He stressed that violence could undermine the political movement and distract from the campaign's objectives. The former minister emphasized that his campaign, known as BENUE FIRST, is built around peace, security, justice, tolerance, and the rule of law.
According to Aondoakaa, those behind attempts to provoke his supporters are seeking to divert attention from the campaign's message. He alleged that they want to create confusion and paint everyone with the same brush. Aondoakaa warned his supporters not to give them that opportunity and to disappoint those who expect them to respond with bitterness and violence.
Aondoakaa emphasized that the strength of his movement does not lie in posters, banners, billboards, or other campaign materials, but in the support and aspirations of the people. He stated that the movement's strength lies in the conviction of the people, in their shared vision for a safer and more prosperous Benue, and in their collective determination to restore hope to the state.
The PDP governorship candidate further stressed that campaign materials can be destroyed, but the aspirations of the people cannot be burned. He said the desire for peace cannot be set ablaze, and the demand for good governance cannot be intimidated into silence. Aondoakaa's statement has been seen as a call for calm and a commitment to peaceful campaigning.
The incident and Aondoakaa's response have sparked reactions from various individuals and groups, with many calling for an end to violent actions in politics. The 2027 governorship election in Benue State is expected to be closely contested, and the PDP is one of the leading parties. Aondoakaa's campaign has focused on issues of peace, security, and good governance, and he has urged his supporters to remain committed to these principles.
Key points
- Michael Aondoakaa urges supporters to remain calm and peaceful after campaign materials destroyed.
- The incident attracts widespread condemnation, with many describing it as an example of bitterness in politics.
- Aondoakaa emphasizes that his campaign's strength lies in the support and aspirations of the people, not in campaign materials.
