By our correspondent
The Benue APC Elders’ Forum has thrown its full support behind Governor Hyacinth Alia and the Benue State House of Assembly over the recent removal of Chief Judge Maurice Ikpambese.
Addressing journalists at his residence, the forum’s chairman, Chief Barnabas Gemade, commended Governor Alia’s leadership and urged him to remain steadfast in his developmental agenda despite political challenges.
He also reaffirmed the forum’s confidence in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, pledging continued support for the Renewed Hope Agenda ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Chief Gemade emphasized that the removal of Chief Judge Ikpambese was executed in accordance with constitutional provisions, citing Section 292(1)(a)(ii) of the 1999 Constitution.
He stated that allegations of financial mismanagement amounting to ₦666,984,687.20 and abuse of office were central to the decision.
The forum further applauded the State Assembly for maintaining discipline among its members, particularly those who initially endorsed the removal but later rescinded their stance.
Responding to a motion by Senate Minority Leader Senator Aba Moro, which called for National Assembly intervention in Benue’s legislative matters, the APC Elders’ Forum dismissed the move as unnecessary.
They asserted that the Benue State Assembly remains legally constituted and fully functional. The forum also criticized Senator Moro for what they described as selective concern, pointing out his silence on similar legislative conflicts in Rivers State.
Calling for political unity and constructive opposition, the forum urged critics to engage in meaningful discourse rather than attempts to destabilize the government.