Benue Attorney General Backs State Police, Electoral Reforms At Constitution Review Hearing
Benue State has made a bold case for the creation of State Police and urgent electoral reforms during the North Central public hearing on the review of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, held in Lafia, Nasarawa State.
Representing Governor Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice and Public Order, Barr. Fidelis Mnyim, confidently articulated Benue’s position on key national issues, urging lawmakers to embrace true federalism that works for all Nigerians.
Chief Mnyim reaffirmed the governor’s unwavering support for establishing State Police, describing it as a necessity in the face of mounting security threats.
He recalled the recent visit of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to Benue, where he condoled with the Yelwata community following deadly attacks on local farmers.
“State Police is not just an option—it is a critical tool in tackling our unique security realities,” Mnyim declared.
He emphasised that local policing would strengthen the enforcement of Benue’s Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Establishment Law, giving communities the power to protect themselves within the bounds of law.
He criticised the current arrangement that designates governors as ‘Chief Security Officers’ without giving them actual control over security forces, calling it “a constitutional contradiction that must be addressed.”
On electoral matters, Mnyim advocated for reforms that would make Nigeria’s democracy more robust and transparent.
He said many of the legal challenges in pre- and post-election disputes stem from flaws within the present constitutional framework, which need urgent correction.
Highlighting Benue’s economic potential, the Attorney General proudly announced that the state is endowed with all 44 of Nigeria’s mineral resources—36 of them in high commercial quantities.
He called for constitutional provisions that would allow states to harness these resources for sustainable development.
In closing, Mnyim pledged Benue’s continued commitment to reforms that promote justice, equity, and accountability. “We support any legislative effort that strengthens true federalism, and we stand against anything that threatens it,” he concluded.
The hearing, organised by the House of Representatives Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution, brought together stakeholders from Benue, Plateau, Nasarawa, and the Federal Capital Territory.
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