The National Judicial Council (NJC) has been petitioned by the Benue Diaspora Vanguard, a socio-political organization, to initiate an investigation of Justice Maurice Ikpambese Ichol, the Chief Judge of Benue State. The petition, signed by Comrade Itodo Isaac, the convener of the Benue Diaspora Vanguard (US Chapter), highlights allegations of non-disclosure of assets and other infractions within the Benue State judiciary.
The petition underscores concerns over the integrity of the judicial system, emphasizing the need for judicial officers to uphold impeccable standards of conduct. Specifically, the group alleges that Justice Ikpambese failed to comply with asset disclosure requirements mandated by law and disregarded requests to provide his assets declaration forms as stipulated by the Freedom of Information Act.
Moreover, the petition accuses Justice Ikpambese of nepotism and manipulation of judicial proceedings, citing instances of preferential treatment towards associates and punitive actions against dissenting voices within the judiciary. The group alleges a pattern of biased decision-making, exemplified by the handling of politically sensitive cases and questionable judgments.
The petition also raises questions about the handling of specific legal cases, including the Benue State Board of Internal Revenue versus Mobile Telecommunications Nigeria Limited (MTN), where allegations of judicial impropriety are leveled against Justice Ikpambese.
In response to these allegations, the Benue Diaspora Vanguard has issued a two-week ultimatum for the NJC to investigate the matter thoroughly. Failure to address their concerns within the stipulated timeframe could lead to protests at the National Headquarters of the National Judicial Council, according to the group.
The petition underscores the importance of maintaining transparency and accountability within the judiciary and calls for a comprehensive review of Justice Ikpambese’s tenure as Chief Judge of Benue State to ascertain the veracity of the allegations raised.
