From Aloysius Umalo, Makurdi
The Coalition for the Rule of Law and Good Governance in Benue State, along with the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Makurdi Branch, have strongly condemned the supposed removal of Benue Chief Judge Justice Maurice Ikpambese, labeling it as an attack on democracy and legal principles.
Addressing Journalists in Makurdi, Leader of the CRPP group and Chairman of Accord Party in Benue State, Bishop Benson Ijache criticized the actions of the state assembly and called out Attorney General Fidelis Mnyim for failing to uphold legal standards.
They deemed the suspension of thirteen State Assembly members dishonorable, while the NBA Makurdi Branch expressed disapproval of the Chief Judge's removal, calling for respect for due process and adherence to the rule of law to maintain peace in the state.
Both entities urged a reconsideration of the removal decision in light of constitutional violations and emphasized the need to uphold the sanctity of the judiciary.
Similarly, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA Makurdi Branch) has also issued a strong statement denouncing the events of 18th February 2025 that unfolded in the Benue State House of Assembly, where the Assembly allegedly removed Chief Judge of Benue State Hon. Justice Maurice Ahemba Ikpambese from office.
They fully endorsed the stance taken by the Nigerian Bar Association, led by Mr. Afam Osigwe SAN on the same day.
The NBA Makurdi Branch asserts that the actions of the Benue State House of Assembly were not only illegal but also a violation of the rule of law, a principle the Nigerian Bar Association upholds. They reject the removal as null and void based on several grounds.
"Firstly, the suspension lacked the required two-thirds majority vote among the 32 members of the House. With only 31 members voting against the Chief Judge's removal and one absent, the necessary threshold was not met.
"Secondly, the removal was deemed unconstitutional and in breach of the separation of powers doctrine. The Chief Judge belongs to an independent arm of government, and the House of Assembly does not have the authority to suspend or remove such an official without following the due process outlined in the constitution".
Additionally, they said the proper procedure for the removal of a Chief Judge, which involves a recommendation by the National Judicial Council, was not adhered to in this case.
"Therefore, the NBA Makurdi Branch rejects the removal as unlawful and insists on upholding the rule of law".
The association emphasizes that while they do not condone misconduct by public officials, adherence to due process is crucial in addressing such issues.
They call on the Benue State House of Assembly to reverse their decision and follow the correct procedure if they have legitimate concerns regarding the Chief Judge.
"Hon. Justice Maurice Ahemba Ikpambese is recognized as the Chief Judge of Benue State, and all law enforcement agencies are urged to support him in carrying out his duties".
The NBA Makurdi Branch warns against attempts to disrupt peace in the state and urges judges not to participate in any illegal actions.
They also declare their intention to boycott courts where judges accept illegal appointments as acting Chief Judge.
The association stands firm in promoting the rule of law and vows to resist any actions that threaten the sanctity of the judiciary.
It would be recalled that recently, the Benue State House of Assembly took action against thirteen of its members, suspending them for a period of three months due to their involvement in activities deemed dishonorable by the Speaker.
Additionally, the suspended members have been directed to reimburse funds meant for a foreign trip back to the state coffers.
The suspensions stem from allegations that these members participated in the removal of the State Chief Judge, despite later publicly denying their role, thereby violating Order IX, Rule 58(6) of the House Standing Rules.
The suspended members represent various constituencies in Benue State, and the Majority Leader cited reasons such as gross misconduct, abuse of office, bribery, and corruption for their suspension.
Speaker RT. Hon. Hyacinth Aondona Dajoh identified the suspended individuals as Mr. Douglas Akya (Makurdi South), Mr. Jonathan Agbidye (Katsina-Ala East), Mrs. Beckie Orpin (Gboko East), Mr. Simon Gabo (Ushongo-Mata), Mr. Williams Ortyom (Agasha).
Others are Hon. Onah Blessed (Oju 1), Mr. Elias Audu (Gwer East), Mr. Anyor Mato (Kwande East), Mr. Manger Manger (Tarka), Mr. Solomon Gyila (Gwer West), Mr. Samuel Agada (Ogbadibo), Mr. Abraham Jabi (Buruku), and Mr. Ezra Nyiyongo (Ukum).
During a motion, the Majority Leader, Comr. Saater Tiseer, highlighted that the decision to remove the Chief Judge stemmed from a complaint by the Attorney-General, outlining various allegations against the Judge, including misconduct and corruption, leading to a majority vote of 23 in favor of the Judge's removal out of 31 members present.
