- The Centre for Judicial Integrity (CJI) has accused the Benue State Government of allocating 500 million to influence NJC proceedings regarding the removal of the states Chief Judge, Justice Maurice Ikpambese
- CJI also criticized the ongoing Benue State Judiciary strike since December 2024, blaming the government’s failure to implement the new 75,000 minimum wage for judiciary staff
- CJI urged the EFCC and ICPC to investigate the alleged bribery attempt, emphasizing the need for an independent judiciary and condemning political interference
Outcry as Benue Govt Faces Allegations of N500m NJC Bribe, Probe DemandedSource: OriginalAllegations of Bribery and Influence PeddlingWe have credible information that certain government functionaries in Benue have been attempting to bribe NJC officials with over 500 million. This is a desperate move to manipulate the judicial process and undermine the rule of law, Adodo stated.Judiciary Must Remain IndependentIt is shameful that rather than focus on improving governance, the Benue State Government has allegedly engaged in acts that compromise judicial independence. An independent judiciary must be safeguarded from any form of political interference, the CJI convener asserted.We commend those principled members of the NJC who refused to be compromised. Their steadfast commitment to justice restores public confidence in our judicial system, Adodo added.Call for Immediate ActionGovernor Alias administration has failed to address the legitimate concerns of judiciary workers. This further proves the administrations inexperience in governance and public service, the group argued.We urge the EFCC and ICPC to investigate these allegations and bring those responsible to justice. Public funds must not be used to subvert democracy, Adodo emphasized.The NJC must remain unwavering in its duty to uphold justice and protect the judiciary from undue influence, the statement concluded.
