A coalition of civil society organizations (CSOs), under the umbrella of the Coalition for Good Governance and Transparency in Nigeria (CGGTN), has called for urgent intervention from the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, and the National Judicial Council (NJC) regarding the ongoing crisis in the Benue State judiciary.
The group warned that if the NJC and the Attorney General fail to address the situation concerning the state’s embattled Chief Judge, Justice Maurice Ikpambese, they will resort to occupying the NJC premises in a mass protest to press for the restoration of order and the protection of democracy in the state.
The crisis began when the Benue State House of Assembly removed Justice Ikpambese over allegations of compromise, bias, and sabotage. However, the NJC rejected this removal, deeming it unconstitutional and a violation of the rule of law.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Wednesday, the coalition, led by Okpanachi Jacob, issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the NJC to form a panel to investigate the allegations against Justice Ikpambese. They demanded that the NJC take action regarding the Chief Judge’s alleged misconduct, which the group claims includes abuse of office, favoritism, and political bias.
Jacob emphasized that while the NJC does not have the authority to remove a Chief Judge, it is responsible for disciplining judges and recommending their removal to the state governor, as outlined in section 292 of the 1999 Constitution. The coalition also criticized Justice Ikpambese for granting political favors to petitioners involved in local government election tribunals, accusing him of showing clear bias and undermining justice.
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The group urged the Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormen Alia, and the state House of Assembly not to fall victim to political distractions and to move swiftly to address the judiciary crisis. They recommended that the Governor immediately appoint an Acting Chief Judge in line with the constitutional procedure.
The coalition further called on the Attorney General of the Federation to intervene, ensuring that the constitutional powers of the Benue State House of Assembly and the Governor are respected. They warned that if the NJC and the Attorney General do not take decisive action, they will proceed with their planned mass protest to demand justice and restore order in the state.
