Garnishee deductions could undermine Benue’s development – Alia
Benue State Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia expressed concern about significant financial deductions resulting from garnishee proceedings against state and local government accounts. He warned that such deductions could jeopardize the government’s development initiatives.
Alia made these remarks on Monday at the Benue State High Court Headquarters in Makurdi, during a special court session that marked the beginning of the 2026/2027 Legal Year.
The governor emphasized the need for enhanced collaboration between the Executive and the Judiciary to address issues impacting the state’s progress. He urged that the two branches of government should work together as partners rather than as competitors.
In his address, Alia called on judicial officers, lawyers, and other stakeholders in the justice sector to maintain professionalism, integrity, and fairness, ensuring that justice is administered impartially. He asserted that adherence to professional ethics is essential for sustaining public trust in the judicial system.
Additionally, Alia encouraged the Judiciary to collaborate with his administration to expedite the resolution of cases, advocating for fair and timely hearings for all litigants. He stated that Benue requires a judicial system that is accessible, efficient, independent, and responsive.
“The Judiciary is a fundamental pillar of democracy and a vital institution for citizens seeking protection of their rights and redress against injustice,” he noted.
The governor assured attendees that his administration would continue to support initiatives aimed at reinforcing the integrity and efficacy of the judicial system. He called on the Judiciary to partner with the government in its economic and agricultural expansion programs, expressing optimism that the new legal year would present new opportunities for addressing challenges within the justice sector.
In earlier remarks, State Chief Judge Justice Maurice Ikpambese urged judicial officers and members of the Bar to remain steadfast in their commitment to justice and to resist practices that could undermine public confidence in the legal system. He stressed the importance of managing the scales of justice diligently, advising against frivolous applications and unnecessary delays in case determinations.
