The Benue State House of Assembly has lifted the suspension of six out of the thirteen lawmakers earlier barred from legislative duties for opposing the removal of the state’s Chief Judge, Justice Maurice Ikpambese.
The reinstatement was announced on Tuesday during plenary, following the submission of a formal appeal and a letter of apology by the affected lawmakers.
The reinstated members are: Hon. Simon Gabo, Hon. Elias Audu, Hon. Solomon Gyila, Hon. William Ortyom, Hon. Blessed Onah, and Hon. Anyor Mato.
Naija News reports that the lawmakers were previously suspended for denouncing the Chief Judge’s removal, which they described as “unconstitutional” and a breach of the separation of powers and fair hearing principles.
On the 19th of February, 2025, the 13 dissenting lawmakers held a press conference in Makurdi, condemning the process and alleging a breach of due process.
In response, the Speaker announced a three-month suspension of the lawmakers, accusing them of engaging in “dishonourable actions capable of causing acrimony in the House.”
The suspended members were also directed to refund funds previously allocated for an upcoming foreign trip, which they will no longer undertake.
The Speaker and members of the House, however, on Tuesday accepted the apology during plenary, and a voice vote was conducted, leading to their official reinstatement.
Meanwhile, the House resolved that the remaining seven suspended legislators will remain barred from legislative functions until they submit their own appeals.
The post Benue Assembly Recalls Six Suspended Lawmakers After Apology appeared first on Naija News.