By Ed Malik, A | ed@ddnewsonline.com | posted 19th february, 2025
The Benue State House of Assembly has allegedly suspended 13 lawmakers who declined support for the removal of the state’s Chief Judge, Justice Maurice Ikpambase.
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The lawmakers bluntly refused to endorse the decision after plenary on Tuesday, which they say is unconstitutional and a violation of judicial independence and fair hearing.
Consequently, during an emergency session on Wednesday, the other members of the House resolved and imposed a three-month suspension on the 13 members, in the first instance.
Furthermore, the suspended lawmakers have been directed to return the funds which they had already received for an upcoming foreign trip, which they are no longer be eligible to participate in.
Speaker Hyacinth Dajoh, wielding the power of his gavel announced the suspension, listing the affected lawmakers as Douglas Akya (Makurdi South), Jonathan Agbidye (Katsina-Ala East), Beckie Orpin (Gboko East), Simon Gabo (Ushongo-Mata), Williams Ortyom (Agasha), Onah Blessed (Oju 1), and Elias Audu (Gwer East).
Others are Anyor Mato (Kwande East), Manger Manger (Tarka), Solomon Gyila (Gwer West), Samuel Agada (Ogbadibo), Abraham Jabi (Buruku), and Ezra Nyiyongo (Ukum).
Before the suspension, Majority Leader Saater Tiseer recalled that the House had earlier received a petition from the Attorney General, accusing the Chief Judge of misconduct, bribery, and abuse of office.
Following discussions, 23 out of 31 lawmakers voted to remove Justice Ikpambase.
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However, after the decision was made, the 13 lawmakers held a press conference, denying their involvement in the removal process.
The House considered their actions deceptive and a breach of legislative rules. According to Tiseer, their behavior violated Order IX, Rule 58(6) of the House Standing Rules, leading to their suspension.