Former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Michael Aondoakaa, has urged the United States government to extend its air strikes to Benue State to flush out terrorists and bandits operating in the area. He said the worsening security situation in the state demands urgent and decisive intervention.
Aondoakaa made the call during a consultation dinner with political stakeholders in Makurdi on Friday night. The meeting, which ended in the early hours of Saturday, brought together leaders from the All Progressives Congress and the Peoples Democratic Party in Benue State.
Aondoakaa says terrorists have overrun Benue communities
According to Aondoakaa, several local government areas in Benue have come under the control of armed groups. He said these groups, who initially presented themselves as herders, later took up arms against host communities.
“There are terrorists in Benue State. The US air strikes should have started here before going to Sokoto. The air strikes are long overdue in Benue,” Aondoakaa said.
He added that the attacks have destroyed livelihoods, displaced residents, and forced communities off their ancestral lands.
US air strikes in Sokoto prompt renewed demand
Aondoakaa’s call followed recent United States air strikes on Islamic State-linked camps in the Bauni forest area of Sokoto State on Christmas Day. He said similar operations in Benue would weaken terrorist groups and help restore peace.
Furthermore, Aondoakaa criticised the Benue State Government for what he described as a slow response to insecurity. He argued that international military support would significantly complement local security efforts.
2027 governorship ambition and security pledge
Aondoakaa, who is seeking the Benue governorship in 2027, assured residents that security would be his top priority if elected. He said protecting lives and property would guide his administration.
He also condemned the spate of killings in the state, including the reported massacre in Yelwata community where about 200 people were allegedly killed in one day. However, he commended President Bola Tinubu for his efforts to address insecurity nationwide and called for sustained federal support for Benue.
Ortom praises Aondoakaa at meeting
At the event, former Benue State governor Samuel Ortom described Aondoakaa as a humble and experienced leader. He urged political actors to cooperate across party lines to tackle insecurity and underdevelopment.
Ortom also acknowledged the role of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, in shaping Benue politics and called for unity among leaders for the state’s development.
