Governor Alia Accused of Allocating ₦500 Million to Influence NJC Proceedings Against Benue Chief Judge
The Centre for Judicial Integrity (CJI) has raised serious allegations against Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State, accusing him of earmarking over ₦500 million to manipulate proceedings within the National Judicial Council (NJC) concerning the removal of the state’s Chief Judge, Honorable Justice Maurice Ikpambese.
According to the CJI’s press statement dated March 24, 2025, this substantial sum was allegedly funneled through key state officials, including the Attorney General, Barr. Fidelis Mnyim; the Commissioner of Finance, Hon. Michael Ogbleba; and the Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Dr. Grace Adagba. These officials are reported to have made multiple trips to Abuja in attempts to compromise NJC processes by engaging with judiciary officials.
The CJI expressed concern that Governor Alia and his appointees, lacking prior public service experience, have demonstrated a troubling disregard for due process, constitutional norms, and the sanctity of judicial independence. Their actions, as highlighted by the CJI, reflect a dangerous misunderstanding of democratic principles, wherein institutions like the judiciary must remain free from political interference.
In addition to the alleged financial misconduct, the CJI’s statement outlined several actions by Governor Alia’s administration that purportedly undermine judicial independence:
- Sponsorship of Protests Against the Chief Justice of Nigeria: The CJI alleges that Governor Alia sponsored protests aimed at discrediting the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, GCON. Demonstrators reportedly carried placards with defamatory messages targeting the Chief Justice and the judiciary.
- Mobilization of Thugs Against Judiciary Officials: On February 19, 2025, political thugs allegedly associated with Governor Alia’s administration held 19 judges of the Benue State High Court and the Customary Court of Appeal hostage for nearly five hours at the Benue State High Court Complex. The assailants vandalized property and assaulted security personnel, creating an atmosphere of intimidation and fear.
- Barricading of Court Premises: The administration is accused of using trucks loaded with sand to barricade court premises, disrupting the Local Government Election Petition Tribunal’s proceedings. This action allegedly obstructed the judiciary’s work and displayed a blatant disregard for the rule of law.
- Non-Payment of Judiciary Emoluments: Since December 2024, the Benue State judiciary has been on strike due to the government’s failure to implement the new ₦75,000 minimum wage for judiciary staff. The CJI criticizes the administration for allowing the state’s judicial system to remain paralyzed, highlighting a lack of engagement in constructive dialogue.
- Intimidation and Harassment of Judges: There are allegations that Governor Alia has attempted to intimidate and harass judges to manipulate cases in his favor, violating democratic principles and undermining the judiciary’s role as an independent arbiter of justice.
The CJI also called for an investigation into the activities of Justice Raphael Joshua Egbe of the Federal High Court of Makurdi, alleging partisanship and attempts to influence ongoing tribunal proceedings unjustly.
In response to these serious allegations, the Centre for Judicial Integrity has issued the following demands:
- Immediate Investigation: Anti-corruption agencies and relevant authorities should conduct a thorough and transparent investigation into the alleged misappropriation of ₦500 million aimed at influencing NJC proceedings.
- Upholding Judicial Independence: The NJC must remain steadfast in protecting the judiciary from external pressures and ensure that any proceedings concerning judicial officers are conducted impartially and in strict adherence to constitutional provisions.
- Ensuring Safety and Security: Security agencies should provide adequate protection to members of the judiciary in Benue State to prevent further acts of intimidation or violence.
- Public Awareness and Vigilance: Civil society organizations, the media, and the general public are encouraged to remain vigilant and advocate for the preservation of the rule of law and the separation of powers, fundamental to democracy.
- Investigation into Justice Egbe’s Activities: The NJC should investigate the case of Justice Raphael Joshua Egbe in Benue State and impose necessary sanctions to uphold the integrity of the judiciary.
The Centre for Judicial Integrity remains committed to defending the independence of the judiciary and ensuring that all actions by public officials are conducted within the framework of the law. They pledge to continue monitoring the situation closely and take necessary steps to uphold justice and accountability in Benue State and across Nigeria.
