EFCC, ICPC urged to probe alleged move by Benue officials to bribe NJC | The Guardian Nigeria News

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related crimes commission (ICPC) have been called upon to probe alleged allocation of N500 million by the Benue state government to bribe the National judicial council (NJC).

The Centre for Judicial Integrity (CJI) behind the call also decried the strike action embarked by the Benue State Judiciary since December 2024 due to the government’s failure to implement the new ₦75,000 minimum wage for judiciary staffers.

CJI Convener, Mr. Solomon Adodo who addressed reporters in Abuja Monday claimed that some appointees of the state government allegedly allocated over ₦500 million to influence proceedings of the NJC concerning the removal of the Chief Judge of Benue State, Honorable Justice Maurice Ikpambese.

CJI further claimed that substantial sum of the monies was allegedly channeled through three Benue State officials who have been making frantic trips to Abuja in an apparent attempt to compromise NJC processes by engaging with key officials within the judiciary.

CJI argued that the actions of the government functionaries reflect a dangerous level of ignorance about the fundamental workings of governance, wherein institutions like the judiciary must be shielded from political interference.

CJI claimed that it was privy to information that some members of the NJC refused to accept any money from the government functionaries adding that their principled stance against corruption reinforces the integrity of the NJC and strengthens public trust in the judicial system.

CJI argued that rather than engage in constructive dialogue and governance, Governor Hyacinth Alia led administration has allegedly allowed the state’s judicial system to remain paralyzed.

The center noted that the inability to grasp the critical role of an independent judiciary in democracy further proves the administration’s lack of experience in governance and public service.

The Centre urged anti-corruption agencies and relevant authorities to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation into the alleged misappropriation of ₦500 million aimed at influencing NJC proceedings.

The Center thereby called on the NJC to remain steadfast in its duty to protect the judiciary from external pressures and to ensure that any proceedings concerning judicial officers are conducted impartially and in strict adherence to constitutional provisions.