The government of Benue State and the Centre for Judicial Integrity (CJI) are in a heated dispute regarding claims that the National Judicial Commission (NJC) was bribed to sway its decision on the dismissal of the state’s chief judge.
The CJI initiated the conflict yesterday by urging the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to investigate the reported allocation of N500 million by the state government intended for bribing the NJC.
The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJI) has linked the ongoing strike by the state judiciary, which began in December 2024, to the government’s failure to implement the new minimum wage of N75,000 for judiciary employees.
During a press conference in Abuja yesterday, CJI convener Solomon Adodo alleged that certain state officials had allocated over N500 million to sway the National Judicial Council (NJC) regarding the removal of Benue State’s Chief Judge, Justice Maurice Ikpambese.
In response, Tersoo Kula, the chief press secretary to the governor, dismissed these allegations as a desperate attempt by dissatisfied political figures in Abuja to undermine the integrity of Governor Hyacinth Alia, who has consistently supported justice and good governance.
Kula expressed strong disapproval, stating, “We completely reject the baseless allegations made by the Centre for Judicial Integrity (CJI) regarding Governor Alia’s alleged role in bribing members of the judiciary.
“If the CJI and their backers have any proof to back up their outrageous accusations, we dare them to make it public or face the consequences of their irresponsible claims.
“Disseminating such falsehoods without evidence only exposes the true nature of those who are intent on damaging the reputation of respected institutions for their benefit. Governor Alia has always respected the judiciary and would never jeopardize its integrity for any reason,” the chief press secretary emphasized.
The CJI alleged that a large amount of money was channeled through three officials from Benue State, who have been making urgent trips to Abuja in an attempt to influence NJC processes by interacting with key figures in the judiciary.
Adodo contended that the actions of these government officials demonstrate a troubling ignorance of the essential principles of governance, which dictate that institutions like the judiciary must remain free from political interference.
He stated that the CJI was informed that some members of the National Judicial Council (NJC) chose not to accept any financial contributions from government officials. This total rejection of corruption not only preserves the NJC’s integrity but also boosts public trust in the judicial system.
The CJI contended that instead of fostering constructive dialogue and effective governance, the administration led by Governor Hyacinth Alia has allowed the state’s judicial system to become stagnant.
The center emphasized that the administration’s failure to recognize the essential role of an independent judiciary in a democracy highlights its inexperience in governance and public service.
Consequently, the CJI called on anti-corruption agencies and relevant authorities to carry out a comprehensive and transparent investigation into the alleged misappropriation of N500 million intended to sway NJC proceedings.
It urged the NJC to remain resolute in its responsibility to shield the judiciary from external influences and to ensure that all matters involving judicial officers are handled fairly and in strict accordance with constitutional guidelines.
The Chief Public Secretary (CPS) further asserted that the demand for a “state of emergency” in Benue State is not only unfounded but also a blatant act of political opportunism. It is clear that these disgruntled political figures are backed by unscrupulous groups eager to exploit any situation for their gain. Their intentions are transparent: to destabilize a state that is currently experiencing effective governance and progress under Governor Alia’s leadership. There is no unrest in Benue State; Governor Hyacinth Alia is firmly in control.
“We caution these instigators of chaos to keep their distance from Benue State. The people of Benue are not swayed by baseless accusations or political tactics. Instead, they are witnessing transformative governance that prioritizes their welfare and well-being.”
Governor Alia is focused on changing the way governance is perceived in the state, making the process clearer, and ensuring that the government serves the people effectively.
“The citizens of Benue are pleased with their governor and support him, praying for his success and the continued development of the state. Governor Alia does not possess wealth that could corrupt anyone, especially not a respected institution like the judiciary. His role is to uphold transparency, accountability, and the rule of law.”
We urge all participants in this slanderous campaign to reflect on their behavior and acknowledge the harm they are causing to the democratic process. The citizens of Benue deserve more than the disruptive tactics and unfounded allegations that threaten their advancement, the CPS said.
