Former Attorney General of the Federation, Chief Michael Aondoakaa, is calling on the US government to extend its air strikes to Benue State to tackle terrorists and bandits.
He made this appeal during a consultation dinner with political stakeholders in Makurdi, citing the growing presence of terrorists in the state.
Aondoakaa lamented that armed groups, masquerading as herders, have overrun several local government areas, destroying livelihoods and displacing residents.
He’s seeking the governorship of Benue State in 2027 and promises to prioritize security if elected.
The US recently carried out airstrikes on Islamic State-linked camps in Sokoto State’s Bauni forest area on Christmas Day.
Aondoakaa believed similar operations in Benue would significantly help address the security situation.
The former minister also condemned the spate of killings in the state, particularly the reported massacre in Yelwata community, where about 200 people were killed in a single day.
He, however, commended President Bola Tinubu for his efforts to tackle insecurity nationwide and called for sustained federal support to prevent further attacks in Benue.
Aondoakaa also acknowledged the roles of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, and a former governor of the state, Samuel Ortom, in promoting unity, urging continued collaboration for the development of Benue.
While speaking at the event, Ortom expressed confidence in Aondoakaa’s capacity and humility, describing him as a leader with the experience to contribute meaningfully to the state.
Ortom stressed the need for strategic partnerships that transcend party lines, calling for cooperation among political actors to lift Benue out of insecurity and underdevelopment.
He praised Aondoakaa for what he described as his clean record after serving as Attorney General and Minister of Justice under two different presidents.
