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Senate Condemns Removal of Benue Chief Judge, Orders Compliance with NJC Directive
The Senate on Thursday strongly condemned the alleged removal of the Chief Judge of Benue State, Justice Maurice Ikpambese, by the Benue State House of Assembly, describing the action as a violation of constitutional provisions.
The Red Chamber mandated its Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights, and Legal Matters to monitor compliance with the National Judicial Council (NJC) directive, which had ordered Ikpambese’s reinstatement.
Senate Motion and Concerns
The resolution followed the adoption of a motion titled:
“Looming Constitutional Crisis in Benue State Stemming from the Purported Removal of the Chief Judge: Urgent Need for Senate Intervention.”
The motion was sponsored by Senator Abba Moro and co-sponsored by Senators Emmanuel Udende and Titus Zam.
Senator Moro emphasized that the National Assembly has the duty to protect and uphold the Constitution, ensuring that no violations occur. He warned that the crisis in Benue State, if left unchecked, could pose a serious threat to democracy and the rule of law nationwide.
“The crisis stems from the purported removal of Justice Maurice Ikpambese by the Benue State House of Assembly without having recourse to the tenets of the law,” Moro stated.
Violation of Constitutional Provisions
The Senate noted that the 1999 Constitution (as amended) clearly vests the power to appoint and remove State Chief Judges in the National Judicial Council (NJC) under Sections 153 and 271.
Moro further cited Section 292(1)(a), which outlines the step-by-step procedure for the removal of State Chief Judges.
“However, the Benue State House of Assembly, either out of ignorance or a deliberate attempt to undermine the law, unilaterally passed a resolution purporting to remove the Chief Judge. This act is a clear affront to the Constitution and a danger to our democracy,” he stated.
The senator argued that the unlawful removal of Justice Ikpambese sets a dangerous precedent and could lead to the abuse of constitutional authority.
Calls for Urgent Action
Senators Udende and Zam backed the motion, urging the Senate to take immediate action to safeguard democratic principles in Benue State.
Following deliberations, the Senate directed its Judiciary Committee to oversee compliance with the NJC’s directive and ensure Justice Ikpambese’s reinstatement.
This intervention highlights the Senate’s commitment to upholding constitutional order and preventing legislative overreach in state governance.
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