The National Industrial Court (NIC) sitting in Abuja on July 23–24, 2025 has ruled as follows in suit NICN/ABJ/68/2025, filed by Chief Judge Maurice Ikpambese:
It voided the purported removal of Justice Ikpambese by the Benue State House of Assembly, declaring it unconstitutional, null and void, citing violations of Sections 153, 271, 292 of the 1999 Constitution and Standing Orders of the Assembly.
It similarly annulled Governor Hyacinth Alia’s recommendation for the removal, holding it was issued without due constitutional process and without the requisite concurrence of the National Judicial Council (NJC).
The court issued a perpetual injunction restraining the Assembly, the governor, and others (including the state AG and NJC) from taking any further steps—such as petitions or disciplinary actions—against the Chief Judge without proper NJC process and fair hearing.
In effect, the court has upheld judicial independence, affirming that only the NJC, following due process, may investigate or recommend removal of a state Chief Judge.
For the Chief Judge He remains in office, and any actions to remove him are legally barred for now.
For Governor Alia & Assembly Their attempt bypassed the NJC and ignored constitutional safeguards; this has been firmly rejected by the court.
For the NJC The court specifically prohibited it from acting on any petitions by Alia or the AG until proper procedures are followed.
The NJC had earlier intervened in February 2025, cautioning against any removal without its oversight . This court action solidifies that stance by legally blocking the governor and legislature from moving without its engagement.
In summary: The court has decisively ruled that Governor Alia’s and the Benue Assembly’s actions were unconstitutional, and it has legally protected Justice Ikpambese’s position. Only the properly constituted NJC process can now address any allegations going forward.
