Benue Assembly Seeks Supreme Court Intervention Over Chief Judge’s Removal
The Benue State House of Assembly has escalated the legal battle surrounding the controversial removal of the state’s Chief Judge (CJ), seeking the Supreme Court’s intervention. This move comes amid heightened tensions between the executive and judiciary over what lawmakers and legal experts describe as a constitutional breach.
Legislative Push for Supreme Court Ruling
In a decisive session, the Benue Assembly resolved to challenge the circumstances leading to the CJ’s removal. Lawmakers argue that due process was not followed, raising concerns about judicial independence and the separation of powers. The Assembly’s leadership maintains that only the National Judicial Council (NJC) has the authority to discipline or remove a Chief Judge, in line with constitutional provisions.
Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Aondona Dajoh, emphasized the need for the Supreme Court’s interpretation of the law to prevent any precedent that could undermine judicial autonomy. “We cannot allow this to stand, as it goes against the constitutional safeguards that protect our judiciary from undue influence,” he stated.
Legal and Political Repercussions
The case has sparked widespread reactions from legal practitioners, civil rights organizations, and political stakeholders. The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has also weighed in, expressing concerns about executive interference in judicial matters. Prominent legal minds argue that if the decision is upheld, it could erode public confidence in the judiciary.
Political analysts believe the Supreme Court’s verdict could set a significant precedent for future disputes involving judicial appointments and removals. The ruling may also impact the ongoing political dynamics in Benue State, where tensions between the executive and legislative arms have been escalating.
Call for Judicial Independence
Legal experts are calling for strict adherence to constitutional provisions to safeguard the judiciary’s autonomy. Many argue that judicial officers should not be subjected to political pressures, as this could compromise their ability to deliver unbiased rulings.
As the case moves to the Supreme Court, all eyes are on the judiciary to determine whether the Chief Judge’s removal was lawful. The verdict could have far-reaching implications for Nigeria’s legal and political landscape.
Source : Swifteradio.com
