Following a petition from Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State, who accused the state Chief Judge, Maurice Ikpembese of abuse of office, tempering with the state local government election law, corruption, inciting judicial strikes, bribery and fraternising with politicians, the Benue State House of Assembly has removed the chief Judge.
Consequently, the assembly recommended the swearing in of Justice Theresa Igoche, who is the next most senior judge as the acting chief judge of the state.
However, lawmakers were divided on the issue as 13 out of the 31 members rejected the removal of the chief judge, distancing themselves from the decision after plenary on Tuesday, describing it as unconstitutional and a violation of judicial independence and fair hearing.
The lawmakers were promptly suspended and during an emergency session on Wednesday, the House imposed a three-month suspension on the 13 members.
The lawmakers were accused of actions that could damage the Assembly’s reputation and create division.
The suspended lawmakers have also been directed to refund funds allocated for an upcoming foreign trip, as they will no longer be eligible to participate.
The Speaker, Rt Hon. Hyacinth Dajoh announced the suspension, listing the affected lawmakers, to include Douglas Akya (Makurdi South), Jonathan Agbidye (Katsina-Ala East), Beckie Orpin (Gboko East), Simon Gabo (Ushongo-Mata), Williams Ortyom (Agasha), Onah Blessed (Oju 1), and Elias Audu (Gwer East).
Others are Anyor Mato (Kwande East), Manger Manger (Tarka), Solomon Gyila (Gwer West), Samuel Agada (Ogbadibo), Abraham Jabi (Buruku), and Ezra Nyiyongo (Ukum).
Before the suspension, Majority Leader, Saater Tiseer recalled that the House had earlier received a petition from the Attorney General, accusing the Chief Judge of misconduct, bribery, and abuse of office.
Following discussions, 23 out of 31 lawmakers voted to remove Justice Ikpambase.
However, after the decision was made, the 13 lawmakers held a press conference, denying their involvement in the removal process.
The House considered their actions deceptive and a breach of legislative rules. According to Tiseer, their behavior violated Order IX, Rule 58(6) of the House Standing Rules, leading to their suspension.
