Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, has ordered the immediate and indefinite suspension of his Special Adviser on Documentation, Research, and Planning, Mr. Mkor Aondona, following his arrest by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over allegations of sextortion, cyberbullying, and blackmail.

In a statement signed by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, on Sunday, Governor Alia said the suspension was in line with his commitment to uphold integrity, discipline, and accountability in public service. “The Governor’s decision is in line with his unwavering commitment to uphold integrity, discipline, and accountability in public service,” Kula said.

Alia assured the public that the law would take its full course without interference or bias, adding that his administration would not tolerate any act that brings the government into disrepute or undermines public trust. “While assuring the public that the law will take its full course without interference or bias, the Governor states clearly that his administration will not tolerate any act that brings the government into disrepute or undermines public trust,” Kula noted.

The Governor emphasized that public office is a call to serve with honour, transparency, and responsibility, and anyone who deviates from this path would have no place in his government. “Public office is a call to serve with honour, transparency, and responsibility, and anyone who deviates from this path will have no place in his government,” Alia said.

The suspended aide is expected to submit himself fully to the legal process to answer to the grave allegations levelled against him. Alia’s administration remains committed to protecting the rights and dignity of all citizens, especially women and vulnerable groups, and will continue to collaborate with law enforcement agencies to ensure justice is served.