The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice and Public Order, Bemsen Mnyim, has been suspended by the Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, for his involvement in the lawsuit challenging the legality of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) without prior notification to the governor.
The Supreme Court recently heard a case filed by 19 states challenging the constitutionality of the laws establishing the EFCC.
However, three of the 19 states, namely Anambra, Adamawa, and Ebonyi, have reportedly withdrawn from the suit. Anambra's Attorney General, Prof Sylvia Ifemeje, informed the court of the state's withdrawal on October 20, and Ebonyi's counterpart, Ikenna Nwidagu, also submitted a notice of withdrawal dated October 21.
Governor Alia expressed surprise at the state's decision to challenge the legality of the anti-corruption agency and subsequently ordered the suspension of the attorney general.
The governor's spokesperson, Kula Tersoo, confirmed the suspension, stating that it was due to Mnyim's unilateral decision to join the suit without informing the governor.
Governor Alia emphasized the need for due consultations and proper briefing before taking action, especially on sensitive matters such as this.
The governor underscored the administration's commitment to holding embezzlers accountable and highlighted the collaboration with the EFCC the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission and other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) in this endeavor.
Governor Alia expressed his disapproval of challenging these watchdogs without his permission and emphasized that Mnyim had acted without authorization, leading to his indefinite suspension pending a satisfactory explanation of his actions.