The National Judicial Council (NJC) has dismissed reports that the Benue State Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Maurice Ikpambese, has been sacked. This comes after the Benue State House of Assembly purportedly passed a resolution recommending his removal from office.
According to the NJC, the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, clearly vests the power to discipline and appoint judicial officers in the Council. The NJC emphasized that these provisions were not adhered to in this case.
While the Council acknowledged receiving a petition against Justice Ikpambese, it stressed that the petition is yet to be investigated in line with its procedures and the principles of fair hearing. Until the complaint is investigated and deliberated upon, Justice Ikpambese remains the Chief Judge of Benue State.
The NJC’s statement was signed by Kemi Babalola Ogedengbe, Deputy Director (Information). This development highlights the ongoing tensions between the Benue State government and the judiciary.
