A protest erupted at the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) headquarters in Abuja over the transfer of the Benue State Local Government Election Petition Tribunal to the Federal Capital. This move, orchestrated by Benue’s Chief Judge, Justice Maurice Ikpambese, was attributed to security concerns, sparking widespread discontent among activists (source: DAILY POST).
Activists accused Ikpambese of subverting justice, citing a Federal High Court order against the tribunal’s relocation. Protest leaders vowed continued demonstrations until the tribunal returns to Benue. They argue that the Electoral Act should prevent petitions from those who didn’t contest, further questioning the roles of the NBA and legal representatives involved.
Key Takeaways:
- Protesters demand the tribunal’s return to Benue State, citing legal inconsistencies.
- Justice Ikpambese is accused of compromising the judiciary’s integrity.
- The protest highlights the larger issue of jurisdiction and transparency in Nigeria’s legal processes.
This situation underscores the tension between judicial decisions and public interest in Nigeria news. Could such protests lead to significant reforms in election petition handling? What are your thoughts on the balance of power and transparency in the judicial process?
