Yemi Obafemi
Benue State governor, Hyacinth Alia, has sent a clear message to his appointees, saying anyone working against the state’s interests will face swift and decisive action.
He said his administration has zero tolerance for saboteurs and misconduct.
The warning followed the suspension of the State’s Attorney General (AG) and Commissioner for Justice and Public Order, Fidelis Mynim.
Governor Alia suspended the Attorney General on Wednesday for joining a lawsuit that challenges the legality of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) without informing his the governor.
The Supreme Court has put the judgment on hold for the lawsuit filed by 19 states challenging the legitimacy of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
However, three states out of the original 19 have backed out of the suit. Initially, these states questioned the constitutionality of the laws that established the EFCC and two other organizations.
Confirming the suspension to LEADERSHIP, the governor’s spokesperson, Tersoo Kula, said, “It’s true that the Governor today suspended the State’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice and Public Order for joining the suit challenging the legality of EFCC without informing the governor.”
“My administration is holding accountable those who embezzled money and drained our state dry. The EFCC and ICPC are assisting us in this effort.
“How can I now turn around and begin to challenge these watchdogs? I gave no permission for him to enter an appearance for the state. Because he acted on his own, I hereby suspend him indefinitely pending a satisfactory explanation of his actions,” the governor was quoted as saying.
