In a dramatic turn of events, the Benue State House of Assembly has suspended 13 of its members for publicly opposing the removal of the state’s Chief Judge, Justice Maurice Ikpambese. The suspension, which spans three months, was announced following a motion moved by the House Majority Leader, Saater Tiseer.
The affected lawmakers had earlier participated in the decision to suspend the Chief Judge over allegations of gross misconduct, abuse of office, bribery, and corruption. However, after the House voted in favor of the recommendation, the 13 members later distanced themselves from the resolution, a move deemed “dishonorable” and “capable of causing acrimony” within the legislative body.
According to a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker, Terver Zamber, the suspended lawmakers were accused of engaging in actions that undermined the credibility of the House. The statement further revealed that the members would be required to refund public funds allocated for a planned foreign trip, as they would no longer be participating in the travel.
The Speaker of the House, Chief Hyacinth Dajoh, formally announced the suspension of:
Douglas Akya (Makurdi South)
Jonathan Agbidye (Katsina-Ala East)
Beckie Orpin (Gboko East)
Simon Gabo (Ushongo-Mata)
Williams Ortyom (Agasha)
Onah Blessed (Oju 1)
Elias Audu (Gwer East)
Anyor Mato (Kwande East)
Manger Manger (Tarka)
Solomon Gyila (Gwer West)
Samuel Agada (Ogbadibo)
Abraham Jabi (Buruku)
Ezra Nyiyongo (Ukum)
During the previous plenary session, the House had deliberated on a petition from the Attorney-General, which outlined various allegations against Justice Ikpambese. After extensive discussions, a division was called, and 23 out of the 31 members present voted in favor of the Chief Judge’s suspension.
However, in a surprising twist, some of those who had supported the decision later held a press conference, denying their involvement in the motion. This act, according to the Majority Leader, directly violated Order IX, Rule 58(6) of the House Standing Rules, which prohibits members from contradicting official House decisions after participating in the process.
The suspension of 13 lawmakers—more than a third of the 32-member House—raises concerns about deepening divisions within the Assembly. While the leadership insists that disciplinary action was necessary to maintain order and credibility, critics argue that the move smacks of political witch-hunting and intolerance of dissenting voices.
With the House now adjourned until March 24, 2025, all eyes are on the unfolding power struggle. Will the suspended lawmakers challenge their punishment? And what does this mean for governance in Benue State? The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the fate of both the embattled legislators and the judiciary at the center of the storm.
PIONEER NEWS 