No Alia, No Benue Slogan Poses Danger To Democracy

Former Attorney General of the Federation and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Chief Mike Aondoakaa, has raised concerns over the growing use of the slogan “No Alia, No Benue,” warning that it poses a threat to democratic values in the state.

Aondoakaa, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, made the remarks while speaking on politics, governance, and the future of Nigeria’s constitutional order.

Aondoakaa, who once served under the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, explained that although he is no longer in public office, he continues to play an active role in law and agriculture. He noted that his legal work still contributes to shaping national jurisprudence, while his involvement in farming supports local development and employment.

The former minister criticised the frequency of constitutional amendments in Nigeria, describing them as reactive moves rather than deliberate reforms. He said the Constitution should be tested in courts before changes are introduced, warning that hasty amendments often weaken the legal framework. He also faulted adjustments to the Electoral Act, stating that they create barriers to justice and conflict with the Evidence Act.

On the debate for a new Constitution, Aondoakaa explained that while calls may come from respected Nigerians, such demands cannot replace the legal process required for constitutional change. He added that proposals for new states must be measured against the country’s current economic challenges. He questioned why more states should be created when many existing ones struggle to pay salaries and meet basic development needs.

He backed the creation of state police, saying it is time for states to handle security challenges that are unique to their regions. However, he maintained that training, recruitment, and access to arms should remain under federal oversight to ensure accountability. He warned that state police should focus strictly on fighting crime and not be used for political purposes.

On national politics, Aondoakaa said the APC is not afraid of opposition coalitions. He praised the administration of President Bola Tinubu for stabilising the economy and pointed to improvements in food supply, infrastructure, and foreign reserves as signs of recovery.

Turning to Benue politics, Aondoakaa criticised the growing use of the slogan “No Alia, No Benue,” which suggests that Governor Hyacinth Alia is the sole determinant of the state’s future. He argued that such a slogan undermines the governor’s democratic victory, which he described as one of the most peaceful and widely accepted in the state’s history.

He cautioned that democracy cannot thrive where divisive catchphrases replace constructive debate. According to him, the governor’s performance should be judged by the delivery of good governance rather than political slogans that threaten unity and distort the will of the people.