Benue Governor Suspends Attorney General Over EFCC Legal Challenge

By MUHAMMED DANBABA

State Attorney General Fidelis Mynin suspended for joining lawsuit against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) without consulting Governor Hyacinth Alia.

Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has suspended the State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice and Public Order, Fidelis Mynin, for joining a lawsuit challenging the legality of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) without informing the governor. The suspension, announced on Wednesday, came after the governor learned that Benue was part of a group of states questioning the constitutionality of the EFCC’s establishment.

The lawsuit, involving 19 states, reached the Apex Court, which reserved judgment on Tuesday. However, three states—Anambra, Adamawa, and Ebonyi—withdrew from the suit after filing motions to exit the case.

Governor Alia was reportedly shocked by Benue’s involvement in the legal action, prompting him to suspend Mynin. The governor’s spokesperson, Kula Tersoo, confirmed the suspension, stating, “It’s true, His Excellency today suspended the State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice and Public Order for joining the suit challenging the legality of EFCC without informing the governor.”

This move underscores the importance of communication between state officials and the governor, especially on sensitive matters like legal challenges to federal institutions.