Special Adviser to the Benue State Governor on Research, Documentation and Strategy, Dr. Mkor Aondona, has defended Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia’s decision to review the state’s economic policy framework, insisting that the administration has the constitutional authority to introduce reforms whenever necessary.
Aondona made the remarks in a statement titled “Re: Is Gov. Alia Managing His Time Right?”, responding to an article by Iorliam Shija, who questioned the timing and rationale behind the governor’s decision to constitute an Economic Policy Advisory Committee.
According to Aondona, the committee was established to strengthen the administration’s economic management by bringing together experienced professionals capable of providing strategic recommendations that align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
He argued that governance requires continuous policy evaluation to address changing economic and social realities, stressing that no administration is restricted to a particular period before reviewing its economic priorities.
“The decision to review the state’s economic policy environment is entirely within the powers of Governor Hyacinth Alia and should not be dictated by opposition politicians,” Aondona stated.
The governor’s aide also criticised Shija’s position, arguing that as a member of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) who served during the immediate past administration in Benue State, he lacked the moral authority to determine the government’s policy direction.
Aondona further maintained that periodic economic reforms remain an essential component of good governance and are designed to improve service delivery, economic growth and development across the state.
He also accused the PDP of grappling with internal crises and advised opposition members to focus on resolving challenges within their party instead of criticising the governing All Progressives Congress (APC).
The governor’s adviser insisted that Governor Alia’s leadership should ultimately be judged by the people of Benue State, expressing confidence that residents would evaluate the administration based on its performance and developmental initiatives.
He concluded that Governor Alia remains committed to improving the welfare of Benue people through resilience, strategic planning and policies aimed at accelerating sustainable development.
