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Former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Michael Kaase Aondoakaa (SAN), alongside his wife Mrs. Patience Awubi Mhenen Aondoakaa, played host to immediate past Governor of Benue State, Chief Samuel Ortom, and his wife Dr. Mrs. Eunice Ortom, during a New Year dinner at their residence in Makurdi on Friday.
The intimate yet significant gathering drew political heavyweights from both the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), along with close associates, creating a rare platform for cross-party reflection on the past year and frank discussions on peace, unity, and development in Benue State and Nigeria as a whole.
In his welcome remarks, Chief Aondoakaa expressed deep appreciation for Chief Ortom’s continued leadership and the invaluable support he extends to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume. He appealed for even greater collaboration among leaders, stressing that unity and strategic partnerships remain essential for the overall progress of the state.
Responding, Chief Ortom warmly commended Aondoakaa for his passion for humanity, describing him as a man after God’s own heart who believes firmly in inclusive leadership and strategic alliances. Ortom reminded guests that power belongs to God and is given to whomever He pleases, while expressing strong confidence in Aondoakaa’s readiness to lead, noting that, if given the opportunity, he would perform even better than during his time as governor.
Other speakers, including Hon. Yaji representing the family, Hon. Dan Morgan Ihomun for APC state executives, Barrister Chive Kaave for Zone A, Hon. Charles Torbunde for Zone B, Chief Mrs. Monica Ugela for the women, and Dr. Laha Dzever in his closing remarks, all extolled the outstanding qualities of Chief Aondoakaa and prayed for divine favor to grant him his heart’s desires.
The event underscored a growing spirit of bipartisanship in Benue politics at the start of 2026, with leaders from opposing sides coming together to prioritize the common good over partisan differences. Such gatherings serve as powerful reminders that sustainable development thrives on dialogue, mutual respect, and collective commitment to the welfare of the people.
