Benue CRPP Condemns Governor Alia’s Attempt to Remove Chief Judge, Demands Attorney General’s Resignation
Makurdi, Benue State – The Collation of Registered Political Parties (CRPP) in Benue State has strongly condemned the state government’s alleged unconstitutional move to remove the Chief Judge, Justice Maurice Ikpambese. The group described the action as judicial rascality and an outright abuse of power.
Addressing the press, the CRPP held the Benue State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice and Public Order, Fidelis Mnyim, accountable for what they termed as a failure to properly advise Governor Hyacinth Alia on the legal implications of the move. The coalition asserted that Mnyim’s silence in the face of this constitutional violation suggests complicity, calling for his immediate resignation.
Call for Accountability
The CRPP expressed outrage over the role of the Benue State House of Assembly in the controversial attempt to oust Justice Ikpambese. They accused Speaker Aondona Dajoh and the legislators of ignorance regarding legal and legislative procedures, stating that their actions have brought the state into disrepute.
The group further emphasized that such an unconstitutional move undermines judicial independence and sets a dangerous precedent in the state. They warned that if the Benue government continues on this path, they will escalate their concerns to national political leadership, the National Judicial Council (NJC), and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Governor Alia’s Silence Questioned
CRPP criticized Governor Alia for his silence on the matter, noting that as a Catholic priest, he is expected to uphold justice, fairness, and moral integrity. The coalition decried his lack of condemnation, interpreting it as an endorsement of the illegal act.
Demands by CRPP
The coalition issued a list of demands to the Benue State Government:
- Immediate reversal of the illegal attempt to remove the Chief Judge.
- A public statement from Attorney General Fidelis Mnyim denouncing the unconstitutional move.
- An apology from the Benue State House of Assembly for their role in the attempted judicial overreach.
The CRPP concluded their statement by declaring that anything short of these demands would be viewed as a deliberate attempt to erode the judiciary’s independence and the rule of law in Benue State. They reaffirmed their commitment to defending democracy and ensuring that the judiciary remains free from political interference.
