The Benue State House of Assembly has lifted the suspension of six lawmakers previously sanctioned for alleged misconduct and disruption of legislative proceedings following their protest against the ousting of Chief Judge Maurice Ikpambese.
The lawmakers were recalled following a formal apology and appeal issued by the affected members, expressing regret over their actions.
Those reinstated are Simon Gabo, Elias Audu, Solomon Gyila, William Ortyom, Blessed Onah, and Anyor Mato.
Announcing their reinstatement during plenary on Tuesday, the Speaker stated that the lawmakers had shown remorse and formally written to apologize for their conduct.
They were initially suspended after a press conference in February 2025, where they criticized the Chief Judge’s removal as a “flagrant violation” of constitutional and democratic norms.
In response, the Speaker imposed a three-month suspension, accusing them of inciting division within the Assembly. The suspended lawmakers were also directed to refund funds disbursed for an aborted foreign legislative trip.
However, during today’s plenary, the Speaker confirmed that their apology was accepted and a voice vote affirmed their reinstatement.
Meanwhile, the Assembly noted that the remaining seven suspended lawmakers will not be recalled until they also submit formal appeals and written apologies to the House.
