MAKURDI, Benue State – The Benue State government is facing mounting criticism for its handling of the ongoing judiciary strike, which has paralyzed the state’s judicial system since December 2024. The strike, initiated by judiciary staff, stems from the government’s failure to implement the newly approved ₦75,000 minimum wage for their sector.
The Centre for Judicial Integrity (CJI) has released a scathing statement condemning the Governor Hyacinth Alia-led administration’s inaction. CJI alleges that instead of engaging in constructive dialogue to resolve the dispute, the government has allowed the judiciary to remain in a state of paralysis.
“Since December 2024, the Benue State judiciary has been on strike due to the government’s failure to implement the new ₦75,000 minimum wage for judiciary staff,” stated CJI convener, Mr. Solomon Adodo. “Rather than engage in constructive dialogue and governance, Governor Alia’s administration has allowed the state’s judicial system to remain paralysed.”
CJI further alleges that the state government has allocated ₦500 million to bribe officials of the National Judicial Council (NJC) and has called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences commission (ICPC) to investigate these claims. According to CJI, three Benue State officials have been making frequent trips to Abuja, allegedly to compromise NJC processes.
The organization argues that the government’s actions demonstrate a fundamental misunderstanding of the separation of powers and the importance of an independent judiciary.
“The inability to grasp the critical role of an independent judiciary in democracy further proves the administration’s lack of experience in governance and public service,” Adodo stated. “Governor Alia, who was a beneficiary of judicial intervention during election disputes, now appears determined to dismantle the very institution that upheld his rights. This hypocrisy and disrespect for democratic institutions should serve as a warning to all who cherish the rule of law.”
CJI has issued the following demands:
- A thorough and transparent investigation by anti-corruption agencies into the alleged ₦500 million misappropriation.
- The NJC to remain steadfast in protecting the judiciary from external pressures.
- Security agencies to provide adequate protection to members of the Benue State judiciary.
The ongoing strike has severely impacted access to justice in Benue State, with numerous cases delayed and legal processes halted. The situation continues to escalate, drawing national attention to the state’s governance and the rule of law.
