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A fresh controversy is brewing in Benue State, as lawyers who represented the 23 Local Government Chairmen and 276 Councillors in high-stakes election petitions are publicly accusing Governor Hyacinth Alia of failing to pay their fees. The legal team, which defended the officials’ mandates at both the Election Petitions Tribunal and the Appeal Tribunal in Abuja, claims they have been left stranded months after completing their assignments.
The dispute centers on the tireless work the lawyers put in to secure victories for the elected officials amid intense political battles. Insiders say the professionals handled complex cases that required extensive preparation, court appearances, and appeals, yet no payments have been forthcoming despite repeated promises. This has sparked outrage within legal and political circles, with many viewing it as a betrayal of those who helped solidify the governor’s administration.
Observers warn that if the issue isn’t addressed swiftly, it could widen existing cracks within the administration. Questions are already being raised about commitment, trust, and the overall management of political structures under Governor Alia. The unpaid fees not only affect the lawyers’ livelihoods but also send a signal about how the government values professional services in defending its interests.
Sources close to the matter reveal that the lawyers have exhausted informal channels to resolve the standoff, leaving them with little choice but to go public. “These were not minor cases; they involved defending the very foundation of local governance in Benue,” one insider noted. The 23 chairmen and 276 councillors emerged victorious thanks to the legal team’s efforts, but the lack of compensation has left a bitter taste.
This development comes at a time when Benue’s political landscape is already under scrutiny for various governance challenges. Governor Alia’s administration, which rode to power on promises of transparency and accountability, now faces a test of its resolve. Will the governor intervene to settle the debts and restore confidence, or will this escalate into a larger crisis?
As the story unfolds, all eyes are on Makurdi for the next move. The lawyers’ grievances highlight a broader issue in Nigerian politics: the often-overlooked role of legal professionals in electoral battles and the risks they take without guaranteed rewards. For now, the hashtag #benue_info is buzzing with reactions, underscoring the public’s demand for fairness and prompt action.
Stay tuned as BENUE info-pedia brings you updates on this evolving saga.
