On Wednesday, the [Benue State](https://benue.gov.ng) chapter of the [All Progressives Congress (APC)](https://www.apc.ng) publicly challenged the [Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)](https://pdp.org.ng) governorship candidate [Chief Michael Aondoakaa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michael_Aondoakaa) to present concrete plans for managing the state’s finances rather than merely attacking the record of [Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia](https://benue.gov.ng).
**What prompted the APC’s response?**
Aondoakaa appeared on Channels Television’s *Political Paradigm* on Tuesday, where he condemned the state’s overhead spending and suggested sweeping cuts to free up money for debt repayment. He did not specify which expense items would be reduced, the projected savings, or how essential services would be maintained.
**Key points raised by the APC**
- The party’s Publicity Secretary, Benedict Yaweh, issued a statement insisting that any serious governorship contender must back criticism with practical, fact‑based proposals and a clear grasp of fiscal responsibilities.
- Yaweh quoted, "A serious governorship candidate must demonstrate how public resources can be managed better through practical proposals, sound financial planning and measurable results."
- The APC questioned Aondoakaa’s claim of superior managerial ability, urging scrutiny of his own track record, including his involvement with private ventures such as Miva Rice, Old Barn Hotel and several filling stations.
- The party asked for clarification on whether these businesses are still operating, have been sold, closed, or suffered a decline, and how they are being managed.
**Why the APC stresses practical solutions**
The statement emphasized that merely criticizing government spending does not prove competence. It called on Aondoakaa to be ready to explain his business history before asking Benue voters to entrust him with the state’s resources.
**What the APC expects moving forward**
The party urged the PDP candidate to submit detailed, measurable financial plans that demonstrate how he would improve resource management, ensure continuity of essential services, and address the state’s debt burden.