The Nigerian Senate on Thursday strongly condemned the removal of the Chief Judge of Benue State, Justice Maurice Ikpambese, by the Benue State House of Assembly, describing the action as a constitutional breach.
The Senate’s position followed a point of order raised by the Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro (Benue South), who decried the unlawful removal of the Chief Judge.
According to Senator Moro, the incident occurred at the Benue State Assembly on Wednesday, where Justice Ikpambese was forcibly removed from office in an alleged breach of due process.
He further revealed that 13 members of the Assembly who opposed the Chief Judge’s removal were suspended for three months by the Speaker, Hon. Aondona Dajor.
Joining the debate, Senator Seriake Dickson (Bayelsa West) expressed deep concern over the constitutional implications of the incident, warning that such actions could set a dangerous precedent for political office holders.
In his remark, Senate President Godswill Akpabio condemned the removal of the Chief Judge, emphasizing that the matter was already before the Disciplinary Judges for review.
To ensure due process and accountability, the Senate Committee on Judiciary and Legal Matters has been directed to investigate the situation and report back within two weeks.
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