Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has suspended his special adviser on documentation, research and planning Mkor Aondona, indefinitely following his arrest by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for alleged sextortion, cyberbullying and blackmail.
The suspension was announced in a statement issued on Sunday, by the governor’s chief press secretary, Tersoo Kula, in Makurdi.
“The Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, directs the immediate and indefinite suspension of Mr. Mkor Aondona, Special Adviser on Documentation, Research, and Planning, following his arrest by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over alleged involvement in sextortion, cyberbullying, and blackmail,” the statement read in part.
Aondona was arrested by the EFCC on June 20, after being trailed by the agency’s cybercrime unit based in Abuja. Sources within the commission said the arrest followed petitions and evidence of his alleged blackmail and threats targeted at several individuals, mostly women, on social media platforms. He was reportedly using fake accounts and chat logs to lure and extort victims.
Governor Alia stressed that his administration will not condone any form of criminality or ethical misconduct from public officials.
“The Governor’s decision is in line with his unwavering commitment to uphold integrity, discipline, and accountability in public service,” the statement continued.
“He says any official of his administration found wanting in matters of criminality or ethical misconduct will face the full weight of the law.
“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.
“He points out that 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.”
The statement further noted that the suspended aide is expected to submit himself fully to the legal process to answer to the allegations.
“The Government of Benue State under the administration of Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia 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,” it added.
Aondona, a former media aide to ex-Governor George Akume and an academic with a PhD in Political Science, was appointed as a special adviser in 2023.
