Following the circulation of a disturbing viral video showing political opponents pouring petrol and setting fire to his campaign T-shirts, Benue State PDP governorship candidate Chief Michael Kaase Aondoakaa, SAN, has made a passionate appeal to his supporters to remain calm and resist any temptation to retaliate.
The former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice issued a personal statement addressing the provocation, firmly instructing his followers across all 23 local government areas of Benue State not to engage in violence, destroy opponents’ billboards, or disrupt the peace. Describing the act as unfortunate and an assault on democratic tolerance, the senior advocate stressed that the strength of his “Benue First” movement relies on genuine ideas and solutions rather than physical posters or banners.
“Do not retaliate. Do not destroy anyone’s campaign materials. Do not engage in violence,” Aondoakaa charged his loyalists, adding that while T-shirts and banners can easily be burned, the deep aspirations of the Benue people for good governance and security can never be destroyed. The viral incident has already drawn sharp condemnation from political groups calling on law enforcement agencies to investigate those behind the arson.
By prioritizing peace over revenge, Aondoakaa’s firm stance sends a strong message that true leadership is tested not by responding loudly to provocation, but by acting responsibly to safeguard lives and maintain public order ahead of the polls.
