Breaking News: Again, C'River Assembly Rejects Justice Akon Ikpeme As Chief Judge Of The State

The Cross River State House of Assembly, has for the second time, rejected the appointment of Justice Akon Ikpeme as Chief Judge of the state.

The assembly had initially rejected her nomination on grounds that she is not from the state, as such, poses a security risk.

Following the expiration of her tenure as Acting Chief Judge and her non confirmation, Governor Ben Ayade swore in Justice Maurice Eneji, her junior, as Acting Chief Judge.

The governor had forwarded his (Eneji) name to National Judicial Commission (NJC) for recommendation, but findings from the NJC showed he was rejected. The body rather recommended Justice Ikpeme to be sworn in immediately since she's the most senior.

The Assembly resolved Tuesday, May 2nd, 2020 to stand by its earlier decision to reject the confirmation of Justice Ikpeme as substantive Chief Judge of state.

The resolution followed a motion moved by House Leader, Rt Hon Peter Odey and seconded by Deputy Leader, Rt Hon Fred Osim which  stated that the House, having taken a resolution on the matter will not reverse its earlier decision. 

The motion was put forward by the Speaker, Rt Hon Eteng Jonah Williams a question, asking whether the motion was the resolution of the House, of which majority of Members overwhelmingly responded in the affirmative.

The Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Tina Agbor had conveyed an attached correspondence from the National Judicial Council on the confirmation of Justice Ikpeme and requested the House to treat the matter urgently to ensure that there was no vacuum in the Judiciary. 

However, the Chairman House Committee on Judiciary, Public Service Matters, Public Petitions and Conflict Resolution, Rt Hon Efa Esua,  told newsmen in an interview that he stands by his earlier decision that Justice Ikpeme deserves confirmation as Chief Judge but that since majority of the Members did not support it and voted against it, the majority's decision becomes the resolution of the House.

Justice Ikpeme's non confirmation has been widely criticised by many, including the Nigerian Bar Association. The association had vowed to ensure that Justice Eneji is not recommended by the NJC.

Justice Eneji's tenure as Acting Chief Judge is due to expire in days.