…Urges Senate to respect separation pf powers
From Henry Ibya, Makurdi
Benue State House of Assembly has responded to the Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters, insisting that it acted within the law in suspending the Chief Judge, CJ, Maurice Ikpambese.
In a letter to the Senate committee, Speaker Aondona Dajoh stated that the Assembly remains committed to the rule of law and understands the constitutional safeguards surrounding the tenure and removal of judicial officers.
The speaker emphasised that matters concerning the appointment and removal of judicial officers fall within the jurisdiction of the state government, subject to constitutional requirements.
He added that the Senate committee could only play an advisory role and any directive or resolution that encroaches on the constitutional autonomy of the state Assembly are merely persuasive.
The Assembly insisted that it acted in compliance with constitutional provisions regarding the removal of Justice Ikpambese, securing two-thirds majority vote after receiving a letter from the executive.
While appreciating the Senate committee’s concern, the speaker reiterated that Benue Assembly acted within its constitutional mandate and its decision remains lawful, final and conclusive, unless set aside by a court of competent jurisdiction.
