Governor’s car gifts to judges doesn’t erode judiciary autonomy – Benue Attorney General
The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice and Public Order in Benue State, Barr. Fidelis Mnyim has stated that the cars gifted to the judiciary by the state Governor, Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia do not erode the autonomy of the judiciary.
The Attorney General stated this while reacting to a query posed by Prof. Ernest Ojukwu, Senior Advocate of Nigeria, in a tweet on Monday challenging the viability of the autonomy granted to Benue State Judiciary if the state governor was still buying cars for them.
Governor Alia had on Monday donated six Sports Utility Vehicles to the state judiciary. Four of the vehicles were for judges of the state high court and two for judges of the Customary Court of Appeal.
Professor Ojukwu wondered why the governor should procure vehicles for the state’s judiciary when the funds allocated to the judiciary could be utilised for that purpose.
According to the commissioner, the procurement of vehicles for the judiciary was a symbol of support and commitment, as promised when he assumed office.
He added that the gesture was significant because the governor had already granted full financial autonomy to the judiciary in February 2024.
He said, “This encompasses both recurrent and capital expenditures, consequent upon which the judiciary is receiving her complete share of funds accruing from FAAC and IGR, proportionate to the percentage of the budget for the month.
While stating that the judiciary has the financial wherewithal to procure vehicles of their choice, as the allocated funds are released to them at the end of each month, Mnyim argued that the donation demonstrated the governor’s commitment to the judiciary, justice, and the law.
“Governor Alia has opted to supplement the financial autonomy with a magnanimous donation of vehicles to the judiciary.
“This gesture is designed to inspire the judiciary to strive for excellence in their service delivery,” Mnyim said.
The Attorney General further highlighted that Alia’s benevolence extends beyond the judiciary, as his administration has implemented various initiatives aimed at enhancing staff welfare and effective service delivery across all sectors.
He said, “The governor’s commitment to the welfare of the judiciary and the entire citizenry of Benue State is evident in his unwavering dedication to fostering an environment conducive to justice, equity, and progress.”
