Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has indefinitely suspended the State’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice and Public Order, Fidelis Mnyim, following his involvement in a legal challenge against the establishment of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
The suspension comes after Mnyim, representing Benue, joined a coalition of states contesting the constitutionality of the anti-corruption agencies. The case, which involves 19 states, is currently before the Supreme Court, where judgment has been reserved as of Tuesday.
However, three states—Anambra, Adamawa, and Ebonyi—have withdrawn from the lawsuit. The Attorney General of Anambra State, Professor Sylvia Ifemeje, filed a motion for withdrawal on October 20. Similarly, Ikenna Nwidagu, the Attorney General of Ebonyi State, submitted a notice of withdrawal on October 21, requesting the court to remove Ebonyi as the 18th plaintiff.
Governor Alia, reportedly surprised that Benue had joined the lawsuit, responded swiftly by suspending Mnyim for his unilateral actions. During a press conference in Makurdi, Alia expressed his dissatisfaction with the Attorney General’s failure to consult or inform him before becoming involved in such a critical matter.
“No matter how urgent the issue, proper consultation and briefing are required, particularly when it involves sensitive issues like this,” Alia stated. He reiterated that his administration is committed to holding accountable those responsible for misappropriating state funds and emphasized the crucial role the EFCC and ICPC play in this effort.
Alia further expressed disbelief that Benue, under his leadership, would challenge the very agencies assisting in the fight against corruption. “I did not authorize him to represent the state in this matter,” the governor added, announcing Mnyim’s suspension pending further explanations.
Mnyim will remain suspended until a satisfactory explanation of his actions is provided.
