Former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Michael Aondoakaa, has resigned his membership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and is set to join the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ahead of the Benue State governorship election.
Aondoakaa announced his resignation in a statement posted on his Facebook page on Sunday after a meeting with former Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom, in Abuja.
The former minister said his decision to leave the ruling party followed extensive consultations with his family, political associates, and supporters.
“I wish to formally notify the general public of my resignation from the All Progressives Congress (APC), effective yesterday 28th of March, 2026,” Aondoakaa said.
He explained that although he appreciated the opportunity to serve within the party, prevailing circumstances made it necessary for him to take a different political path.
“This decision follows careful reflection and wide consultations with my family, political associates, 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,” he added.
Aondoakaa also urged his supporters and associates to remain calm and peaceful as he prepares to announce his next political move.
According to him, the decision was aimed at repositioning Benue State for better governance and development.
“At this critical time, I call on all my supporters and associates to remain calm, peaceful, and steadfast. A new direction aimed at salvaging and repositioning Benue State in the best interest of our people will be communicated in due course,” he stated.
He further thanked members of the APC in Ushongo Local Government Area, across Benue State, and beyond for their cooperation and support during his time in the party.
“The relationships built and experiences gathered remain invaluable,” he said.
Move linked to 2027 governorship race
Meanwhile, sources within the political circle in Benue State indicated that Aondoakaa is preparing to join the PDP to pursue his governorship ambition in the 2027 general elections.
According to Leadership, it was gathered that the former minister may not be the only APC governorship aspirant planning to defect to the PDP.
Reports also suggested that legal practitioner Sebastine Hon, SAN, another APC governorship aspirant in Benue, may also join the opposition party to pursue his political ambition.