Chief Mike Kaase Aondoakaa, SAN, former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice under President Umaru Musa Yar’adua (2007–2010), has warned that the slogan “No Alia, No Benue” is a dangerous and anti-democratic narrative, undermining free political competition in the state.

In an exclusive interview with BEN UKEJI, Aondoakaa, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue State, spoke extensively on contemporary legal issues, governance, state creation, state police, and political developments in Benue.

Reflecting on his transition from public service to private practice, Aondoakaa said he continues to serve the nation. “As a private practitioner, I have engaged in cases that have developed the country’s legal jurisprudence. I have also set up companies that added value to agriculture,” he said.

Aondoakaa criticized the frequent amendments of the Nigerian Constitution, calling them counterproductive and likening the practice to a “jamboree.” He argued that amendments are often misused to deny access to courts and compromise fair hearing rights under Section 36 of the Constitution.

He also called for reforms in the Electoral Act, particularly regarding the handling of subpoenaed evidence, emphasizing that evidence in the custody of an adversary, such as INEC, should be admissible after filing a petition to prevent injustice.

Aondoakaa questioned the urgency of creating new states, noting the financial strain on existing states and the lack of visible development. “Even the states in existence, where is the development? Many are not doing anything,” he said. He stressed that resources should be channeled toward development rather than administrative expansion.

The former AG advocated for the creation of state police under federal oversight, with the federal government handling recruitment, training, and arms acquisition, while states manage logistics and payment. He emphasized that state police should focus solely on crime prevention, including terrorism, kidnapping, and communal conflicts, and remain completely detached from political activities. He also suggested personal liability for officers violating the law to prevent abuse.

Aondoakaa dismissed concerns over opposition coalitions, highlighting that President Bola Tinubu’s administration has bolstered economic development, infrastructure, and foreign reserves, providing a stable environment for governance.

He condemned the “No Alia, No Benue” slogan, stressing that it undermines the democratic process. “Governor Alia won with overwhelming popularity through persuasion. Nobody was hurt. ‘No Alia, No Benue’ is doing a disservice to him and the people. Free contestation without intimidation is the cornerstone of democracy,” Aondoakaa said.

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