Protesters stormed the Nigerian Bar Association House in Abuja on Monday, calling for the immediate relocation of the Benue State Local Government Election Petition Tribunal back to Benue State.
The demonstrators insisted that no lawyer should represent any petitioner or respondent if the tribunal continues to sit in Abuja instead of Benue.
The controversy began when Benue State Chief Judge, Justice Maurice Ikpembese, ordered the LG tribunal relocation from Benue to Abuja, citing security concerns. However, the Benue State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice and Public Order, Mr. Fidelis Mnyim, criticized the Chief Judge’s decision, arguing that it was made without consulting the state government.
A Federal High Court in Makurdi had earlier restrained the tribunal from holding proceedings outside Benue State. The court order was issued on Friday, and the tribunal has confirmed receiving it.
Amid mounting pressure, the tribunal’s presiding judge, Justice R.K. Egbe, announced the suspension of plans to hold proceedings outside Benue pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice. The tribunal has now been adjourned indefinitely.
The Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, had earlier urged residents to stay away from tribunal venues in Makurdi, Gboko, and Otukpo. The governor also imposed a ban on protests, unauthorized gatherings, and commercial activities near the tribunal venues.
The protesters demanded transparency and accountability in the handling of the election petition tribunal. They insisted that the tribunal should be relocated back to Benue State to ensure that justice is served and that the people of Benue State are not denied their right to fair hearing.
The controversy surrounding the tribunal’s relocation has had a significant impact on the community. Many residents of Benue State have expressed concerns about the fairness and impartiality of the tribunal, and some have even threatened to boycott the proceedings if the tribunal is not relocated back to the state.
The judiciary plays a crucial role in ensuring that justice is served and that the rights of citizens are protected. In this case, the judiciary must ensure that the tribunal is impartial and that justice is served. The relocation of the tribunal back to Benue State is essential to ensuring that justice is served and that the people of Benue State are not denied their right to fair hearing.
About The Author
