The National Judicial Council (NJC) has affirmed that Justice Maurice Ikpambese remains the Chief Judge of Benue State.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, NJC spokesperson Kemi Ogedengbe stated that Ikpambese would continue in his role until complaints against him are investigated and reviewed by the council.
The NJC dismissed the Benue State House of Assembly’s move to remove the chief judge, asserting that it had no legal standing.
“The National Judicial Council has noted media reports that the Benue State House of Assembly has purportedly passed a resolution recommending the removal of the State Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Maurice Ikpambese.
“Unfortunate as this development is, the Council reiterates that the Nigerian Constitution of 1999 contains clear provisions regarding the discipline and appointment of judicial officers, which must be strictly followed.
“Although a petition against Hon. Justice Maurice Ikpambese was received this morning, it has yet to be investigated in accordance with the Council’s procedures and the principles of fair hearing,” the statement read.
Earlier, the Benue State Caucus in the National Assembly condemned the attempt to remove the Chief Judge, describing it as unconstitutional and illegal.
The caucus declared the action null and void and urged the NJC to intervene to prevent a constitutional crisis.
They warned that if the matter was not addressed, the National Assembly might be compelled to take control of the Benue State House of Assembly’s affairs, as permitted by the constitution.