BREAKING: Drama as NJC reverses suspension of Ikpambese as Chief Judge of Benue State

The National Judicial Council (NJC) has affirmed that Justice Maurice Ikpambese remains the Chief Judge of Benue State, stating that his purported removal by the Benue State House of Assembly cannot stand.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by NJC spokesperson Kemi Ogedengbe, the council emphasized that Ikpambese will remain in office until all complaints against him have been properly investigated and deliberated upon.

NJC Rejects Assembly’s Decision
“The attention of the National Judicial Council has been drawn to media reports that the Benue State House of Assembly has passed a resolution recommending the removal of the State Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Maurice Ikpambese,” the statement read.

“Unfortunate as this development is, the Council reiterates that the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria provides clear and unambiguous procedures for the discipline and appointment of judicial officers—procedures that have not been adhered to in this case.”

The NJC confirmed that it received a petition against Justice Ikpambese earlier in the day, but stressed that the petition is yet to be investigated in line with due process and the principles of fair hearing.

Federal Lawmakers Condemn Removal
Meanwhile, the Benue State Caucus in the National Assembly has strongly condemned the Chief Judge’s removal, describing it as unconstitutional and illegal. The lawmakers declared the move null and void, urging the NJC to intervene immediately to prevent a looming constitutional crisis.

The caucus further warned that if the situation is not addressed, the National Assembly may be compelled to take over the affairs of the Benue State House of Assembly as stipulated in the constitution.