The Curious Case of Benue’s Judiciary: When the Gavel Bows to Politics

The Curious Case of Benue’s Judiciary: When the Gavel Bows to Politics

Jerry Adesewo

In the quaint political theatre of Benue State of Nigeria, where democracy is often performed with the flair of a Nollywood drama, the plot has thickened. It appears that the revered Chief Judge of the state, who should be presiding over the scales of justice, is now precariously balanced on the edge of a political guillotine. And, as is tradition, the executioner is not the law, but the almighty hammer of political ambition.

It all began with a petition by none other than the Reverend Father-Governor himself, Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia. You know, the same figure sworn to uphold the rule of law, now seemingly rebranding as the state’s chief puppet master. Just when I was beginning to warm up to him, with the belief that Benue State choice in the selection of a Reverend Gentleman, is this time spot on!

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The state House of Assembly, under the leadership of the Governor’s namesake, Rt Hon. Hyacinth Aondona Dajoh, eager to prove their loyalty, leapt into action, like a circus actor, launching an investigation (within the chambers of the Assembly in Makurdi), into the alleged misdeeds of the Chief Judge. The proceedings, if you could call them that, bore a curious resemblance to a kangaroo court, minus the marsupial grace.

The Assembly’s recommendation for Justice Maurice Ikpambese’s removal came with all the subtlety of a sledgehammer to the Constitution. Legal experts watched in horror, as lawmakers, entrusted with the sacred duty of representation, appeared more interested in representing personal and political interests. It was as if Lady Justice had been dragged into the hallowed chambers, blindfolded, and forced to sign a resignation letter.

But the real comedy unfolded when some members of the Assembly, who had reportedly danced to the tune of the proceedings, suddenly found religion—specifically, the gospel of due process. These lawmakers, now enlightened, began to cry foul, condemning the process they had helped set in motion. Apparently, integrity is best discovered after the fact, much like a forgotten umbrella only remembered during a downpour.

Of course, their newfound righteousness, which has been labelled an act of rebellion, perfected in a beer parlour, which are commonplace in Makurdi, did not sit well with their colleagues on the other side of the divide. The Assembly leadership, perhaps inspired by the best practices of medieval monarchies, threatened these dissidents with suspension, and live up to their threat, better and faster than fulfillment of any political promise. After all, nothing screams democratic values like silencing voices of dissent, right?

The public, for our part, of which I am one, have watched this drama unfold with a mix of amusement and despair. Many wonder if the next House session will feature popcorn and soft drinks, given the entertainment value. But behind this avoidable brouhaha lies a serious question: What happens when the judiciary—the last hope of the common man—is trampled by political gladiators?

Legal scholars argue that the separation of powers is not just a phrase to memorise for civic exams but a fundamental principle that keeps democracy alive. The judiciary must remain independent, not as a favour to judges, but as a safeguard for the people. When lawmakers become lawbreakers, and when governors govern with decrees rather than dialogue, democracy inches closer to the abyss.

For now, Benue State is left with the echoes of gavels and grumbles. The Chief Judge’s fate hangs in the balance, and the House of Assembly is busy rehearsing its next act. The National Judicial Council (NJC) has threatened that any Judge who assume the position of Benue State’s Chief Judge will be sanctioned, while legal luminaries have been speaking for and against as well, with Femi Falana, SAN adding that the legislators should be punished for their sacrilegious act.

Perhaps, in the end, sanity will prevail, and the judiciary will reclaim its place above politics. Or, perhaps, as with most Nigerian stories, we will move on to the next scandal, which is already brewing, with this episode filed under ‘Business as Usual’.

Until then, the people of Benue will watch, waiting to see if justice will rise or if it will continue to be a pawn on the chessboard of power. After all, in this curious case of Benue’s judiciary, it seems the gavel has not just fallen—it has bowed.

The Curious Case of Benue’s Judiciary: When the Gavel Bows to Politics