Makurdi, November 18, 2024 – The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice of Benue State, Fidelis Mnyim, has been reinstated after a month-long suspension by Governor Hyacinth Alia. Mnyim was suspended in October 2024 following his participation in a controversial lawsuit involving 19 other state Attorneys General, challenging the constitutional existence of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
Governor Alia, while announcing Mnyim’s recall, emphasized the need for unity within the state executive council. He acknowledged that Mnyim’s actions raised critical legal questions but expressed confidence in the Attorney General’s ability to align with the administration’s vision of accountability and transparency in governance.
The lawsuit, which questioned the constitutional mandate of the EFCC and ICPC, sparked national debates on the role of federal anti-corruption agencies in state affairs. Critics argued that the challenge undermines efforts to combat corruption, while proponents claimed it was a legitimate attempt to clarify the agencies’ jurisdiction under Nigeria’s federal structure.
Governor Alia had initially distanced his administration from the suit, asserting that it did not reflect the state’s official position. Sources close to the state government revealed that Mnyim’s suspension was intended to reinforce this stance and maintain public trust.
In his statement upon reinstatement, Mnyim expressed gratitude to Governor Alia and pledged his commitment to the administration’s agenda. He also defended his involvement in the suit, describing it as a professional duty to explore the legal boundaries of Nigeria’s federal structure.
“While the debate on the roles of the EFCC and ICPC is ongoing, I assure the people of Benue State that my primary responsibility remains serving their interests through sound legal counsel,” Mnyim said.
The reinstatement is seen as a move towards reconciliation within the Benue State government. However, it also reignites discussions on the balance of power between federal agencies and state governments in Nigeria’s fight against corruption.
As the case progresses in court, it is expected to set a significant precedent for the interpretation of the 1999 Constitution concerning federalism and the autonomy of states in Nigeria.