Dr. Ocheakiti, the running mate to former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Michael Kaase Aondoakaa (SAN), visited the palace of the Och' Adoka to formally present his nomination to the traditional institution and seek the blessings of the Adoka Traditional Council ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
The event drew traditional rulers, political leaders, youth and women groups, as well as PDP supporters from across the community, reflecting what party members described as growing grassroots support for the Aondoakaa/Ocheakiti ticket.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Ocheakiti said his decision to join the governorship race was motivated by the urgent need to confront the persistent security challenges facing Benue communities, particularly farming areas affected by violent attacks.
Leveraging his experience in counter-terrorism and intelligence, he said the PDP ticket would pursue practical, intelligence-driven strategies aimed at restoring peace, protecting lives and property, and creating a secure environment for farmers to return to their ancestral lands.
"I have spent years working within complex national security structures, but my greatest responsibility is to the safety and wellbeing of my people. Benue has endured too much pain. Together with Chief Michael Aondoakaa, we are committed to implementing practical solutions that will restore peace, strengthen security, and give our people the confidence to live and farm without fear," he said.
The Och' Adoka, Chief Dr. Samuel Awulu Onuh, JP, who received the deputy governorship candidate on behalf of the Adoka Traditional Council, offered royal prayers for the success of his political aspiration. The monarch described Dr. Ocheakiti's security background as a valuable asset at a time when Benue is grappling with increasing security concerns.
Dr. Ocheakiti also paid tribute to prominent political leaders from Adoka, thanking them for their encouragement and support. He specifically acknowledged the roles played by retired General Geoffrey Ejiga, Senate Minority Leader Senator Abba Moro, and Chief Paul Harris Ogbole (SAN), describing them as respected leaders whose guidance has continued to inspire him.
The homecoming concluded with cultural performances, solidarity songs, and renewed pledges of support from PDP women and youth groups, who vowed to work towards the success of the Aondoakaa/Ocheakiti governorship ticket in the 2027 elections.
The visit is expected to form part of the PDP's broader grassroots engagement strategy as preparations for the 2027 governorship contest gather momentum in Benue State.
