Political consultations ahead of the 2027 governorship election in Benue State have sparked speculation, but former Governor, Samuel Ortom, says there is no plan to replace the Peoples Democratic Party’s candidate.
In a statement issued by his media aide, Ortom dismissed reports claiming that PDP leaders secretly met with members of the All Progressives Congress to substitute the party’s governorship candidate, Michael Aondoakaa.
He clarified that the meeting, which included Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro, Aondoakaa, and other prominent Benue stakeholders, was aimed at fostering collaboration among leaders committed to the state’s progress.
According to Ortom, “At no time during the meeting was the replacement of Chief Aondoakaa as the PDP governorship candidate discussed, contemplated or placed on the agenda”.
He stressed that engagements across party lines are a normal part of the political process and should not be viewed as secret conspiracies.
The former governor reaffirmed that Aondoakaa remains the PDP’s governorship candidate for the 2027 election and continues to enjoy the backing of the party’s leadership.
Ortom urged party members and supporters to disregard what he described as false reports and remain focused on the party’s efforts to build a broad political coalition ahead of the election.
