By Amos Aar
GOVERNOR Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has suspended the state’s Attorney General, Commissioner for Justice and Public Order, Bemsen Mnyim indefinitely.
The suspension which was announced Wednesday during a press conference at Government House, shortly after the State Executive Council meeting followed Mnyim’s alleged unilateral decision to join a lawsuit challenging the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) without the governor’s permission.
Governor Alia emphasised that his administration relies on these agencies to hold accountable those responsible for embezzling the state funds.
“My administration is holding accountable those who embezzled money and drained our state dry. The EFCC and ICPC are assisting us in this effort,” he stated.
Alia stressed the importance of consultation and clearance before taking sensitive actions.
“No appointee is permitted to act unilaterally. No matter how pressing or urgent the issue is, one must resort to due consultations with me or appropriately brief me and seek my permission before acting, especially in a sensitive matter such as this.
“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,” Alia stated.
National Record recalled that Governor Alia had about two months ago promised to reshuffle his cabinet to engage more capable and trusted hands for better performance.
