Agada’s Reinstatement: ₦3 Billion Appeal Court Manipulation Alert
The political turbulence in the Benue State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has intensified with allegations that Governor Hyacinth Alia is orchestrating a ₦3 billion scheme to manipulate the judiciary in the reinstatement case of Comrade Austin Agada as State Chairman. Sources reveal that the governor has allegedly directed local governments to raise ₦100 million each while extracting ₦700 million from state coffers to fund this effort.
The alleged scheme has sparked widespread concern, with critics warning that reinstating Agada could expose the illegal constitution of local government councils under Alia’s administration, jeopardizing their legitimacy. This development underscores the need for the public to vigilantly monitor the expenditures of local government funds across the state.
Governor Alia’s alleged attempts to manipulate the judiciary reportedly began at the High Court level, where two judges, including a retired jurist, were allegedly offered ₦50 million to deliver a favorable ruling. A female judge reportedly rejected ₦15 million and withdrew from the case due to alleged threats. These actions have raised serious questions about judicial independence and the undue pressure exerted by Alia to achieve his desired outcomes.
An insider close to the judiciary lamented, “The governor’s tactics undermine the integrity of the judicial system and the principles of separation of powers.”
The allegations of judicial manipulation escalated when Governor Alia reportedly sought an audience with the President of the Court of Appeal. After waiting for hours without success, the governor’s attempts to meet privately with the Court President turned into a humiliating episode. Frustrated, he left abruptly and later traveled to France in a bid to garner political support. However, reports indicate he was denied significant attention during the trip, further deepening his rift with the presidency.
Governor Alia’s perceived tactics have drawn sharp criticism, with many describing his leadership as Machiavellian and despotic. Observers warn that the public must remain vigilant, particularly regarding the governor’s alleged manipulation of judicial officers and undue coercion to secure favorable rulings. Citizens are also called upon to monitor the financial activities of local governments to prevent the diversion of public funds for political and personal gains.
A legal expert emphasized, “The judiciary must remain resolute and resist all attempts to undermine its independence. This is a crucial test for the Nigerian legal system.”
Governor Alia’s approach to governance has been characterized by desperation and authoritarianism, according to critics. Allegations of coercion and disregard for democratic norms have defined his tenure, drawing parallels to his controversial past as a clergyman. Reports suggest that his strained relationships with the four Catholic bishops in Benue State stem from his infamous reputation, which predates his political career.
The judiciary is forewarned to exercise caution in dealing with the governor’s alleged adventures to avoid undermining its integrity. Alia’s perceived coercion and manipulation of judicial processes pose a significant threat to the rule of law and public confidence in democratic institutions.
As the drama unfolds, the stakes are high for both Governor Alia and the APC in Benue State. The public and the judiciary must remain vigilant to ensure that justice prevails, free from undue influence and manipulation.
