By Henry Iyorkase, Makurdi
In line with provisions of the Constitution, Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia has reiterated his administration’s commitment to guarantee financial autonomy to the judiciary in the state.
Governor Alia made the disclosure during the 2023/2024 Benue State Judiciary Legal year celebration, held at the City Bay Event Centre, Makurdi, on Saturday.
The governor said granting financial autonomy to the judiciary is an essential ingredient of the rule of law, which he noted will enable the judges to apply the law without fear or favour but with respect to the fundamental human rights of the citizenry.
Governor Alia re-emphasised the determination of his administration to create an enabling environment to attract investors to the state, saying such a desire can only become possible if the judiciary arm is there to protect investors from unwarranted legal proceedings.
He described the judicial arm of government as a valued partner in his administration’s efforts to reposition Benue State as a whole, promising to look into the welfare of Judges including those of the lower bench.
“Situations where judges of the lower courts in Benue State travel by public transportation including commercial motorcycles popularly known as ‘Okada” is an enormous risk and poses grave dangers to the lives of the judges and their work,” Alia said.
He subsequently directed the Attorney-General and Commissioner of Justice and Public Order in the State, Barr. Fidelis Mnyim, to liaise with the Chief Judge, Justice Maurice Ikpambese, and work out modalities aimed at improving the welfare of the Judges.
While felicitating with the judiciary in the state, the governor charged them to strive towards ensuring speedy and timely dispensation of justice in this new legal year.
Earlier in their separate addresses, the Chief Judge of Benue State, Justice Maurice Ikpambese and the Attorney General, emphasised on the special role the judiciary has played in strengthening the electoral process in Nigeria.
They stated further that the arm of government will continue to act as a pillar of justice and continue to sustain democracy in Nigeria and Benue State
The event had in attendance, top members of the judiciary in the state, members of the Bench and Bar as well as top government functionaries.