NBA Condemns Benue Assembly’s Resolution To Remove Chief Judge As Unconstitutional
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has sharply criticized a resolution passed by the Benue State House of Assembly, which directed Governor Hyacinth Alia to remove Chief Judge, Honourable Justice Maurice Ikpambwese, from office.
In a joint statement signed by NBA President Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, and General Secretary Dr. Mobolaji Ojibara, the association described the move as “a brazen assault on the Constitution” and a direct threat to judicial independence.
The NBA statement asserted that the removal of any judicial officer—especially one holding the esteemed position of Chief Judge—must strictly adhere to due process as outlined in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. “Any deviation from the prescribed process is an affront to the rule of law and poses a significant threat to our democracy,” the statement read.
Osigwe and Ojibara highlighted that the 1999 Constitution explicitly empowers the National Judicial Council (NJC) with the responsibility to investigate allegations of misconduct and recommend the removal of state Chief Judges. They noted that the Benue State House of Assembly, by purporting to have the power to discuss and recommend such a removal without the involvement of the NJC, is acting beyond its constitutional mandate.
The statement also criticised the Assembly for failing to provide Justice Ikpambwese with an opportunity to defend himself against the allegations, which include financial misappropriation and abuse of office. “It is unacceptable to remove a judicial officer without affording him the right to a fair hearing,” the statement declared.
Furthermore, the NBA called on all elected officials to refrain from arbitrary actions that jeopardise the integrity of the judiciary and urged law enforcement agencies to ensure that Chief Judge Ikpambwese is not hindered from discharging his constitutional duties.
The association concluded by urging the Benue State House of Assembly to rescind its unconstitutional resolution and to follow the proper channels through the NJC for addressing any grievances against judicial officers. “The show of shame must stop,” the statement emphasised.
The NBA remains steadfast in its commitment to defending the independence of the judiciary and upholding the rule of law in Nigeria.
PURPORTED REMOVAL OF CHIEF JUDGE OF BENUE STATE-A BRAZEN ASSAULT ON THE CONSTITUTION
