Garnishee deductions could undermine Benue’s development – Alia

Benue State Governor Rev. Fr Hyacinth Alia expressed apprehension over the substantial monetary awards from garnishee proceedings affecting state and local government coffers, suggesting these deductions could impede the government's developmental initiatives. He made these remarks on Monday during the inauguration of the 2026/2027 Legal Year at the Benue State High Court Headquarters in Makurdi.

Governor Alia urged for enhanced collaboration between the Executive and Judiciary, advocating they operate as allies rather than adversaries, sharing the responsibility to serve the populace. He implored judicial officers, legal practitioners, and other justice-sector stakeholders to maintain professionalism, integrity, and fairness, ensuring impartial justice administration devoid of bias.

Governor Alia emphasized that adhering to ethical standards and the judicial profession's dignity, guided by faith, was pivotal in preserving public trust in the justice system. He also called on the Judiciary to collaborate with his administration to resolve case determination delays, stressing the need for litigants to receive equitable and prompt hearings.

Alia highlighted the necessity for a justice system that is accessible, efficient, independent, and responsive. Asserting that the Judiciary plays a crucial role in upholding democracy and safeguarding citizens' rights, he pledged his administration's dedication to bolstering the judicial system's integrity and efficiency. Governor Alia signaled his administration's continued support for measures aimed at fortifying the judicial system's credibility and effectiveness.

He expressed optimism that the new legal year would present new avenues for the justice sector to tackle its challenges and bolster the state's development. Earlier, State Chief Judge Justice Maurice Ikpambese reminded judicial officers and the Bar to uphold steadfastness in administering justice and shun practices that could erode public confidence in the legal system.

He urged the Bench and Bar to handle justice matters with diligence, rejecting frivolous applications and unnecessary adjournments meant solely to delay case resolutions.