Thirteen members of the Benue State House of Assembly have distanced themselves from what they described as the purported resolution to remove the state Chief Judge, Justice Maurice Ikpambese.
Douglas Akya of Makurdi South Constituency announced the dissociation while addressing journalists in Makurdi the State capital.
They described the action as not only unconstitutional, but a violation of the principles of separation of powers and fair hearing which is necessary for the sustenance of democracy.
Akya argued that the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999, as amended, clearly states that a Chief Judge of a state can only be removed on recommendation of the National Judicial Council which is responsible for disciplinary actions against judicial officers and supported by two-third majority of members of the House of Assembly of the state praying for the removal of the state Chief Judge.
“The attendance at today’s sitting was 31 members, the Speaker did not vote, and 13 members did not vote, therefore, it is unimaginable that in an Assembly of 32 members where 31 were in attendance and 13 members did not vote, the voting produced 23 votes,” he stressed.
Akya and his colleagues said that since none of the requirements for the removal of the Chief Judge was not met, they decided to distance themselves from the action as disciples of democracy and constitutionality.
The 13 members include :
- William Ortyom – Agasha
- Jonathan Agbidye – Katsina-Ala East
- Samuel Anyor Matu – Kwande East
- Onah Blessed – Oju 1
- Orpin Beckie – Gboko East
- Elias Terumbur Audu – Gwer East
- Nyiyongo Ezra – Ukum
- Abraham Zahemen Jabi – Buruku
- Gabo Simon – Mata
- Samuel Agada – Ogbadibo
- Gyila Solomon T – Gwer West
- Manger M Manger – Tarka
- Douglas Terkume Akya – Makurdi South
Editor: Anoyoyo Ogiagboviogie
