The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) branches in Makurdi, Gboko, and Otukpo have urged Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia to sign a bill extending the retirement age of magistrates and law officers in the state Ministry of Justice. The bill, passed by the Benue State House of Assembly on May 6, 2026, aims to preserve the expertise of experienced legal practitioners within the state's justice system. The NBA branches believe this legislation is crucial for maintaining the quality of justice in the state.
Chairman of the Makurdi NBA Branch, Joseph Mtemdoo Gbagyo, made the appeal on behalf of the three branches at the opening of the 2026/2027 Benue State Judiciary Legal Year. The event, held at the High Court Complex in Makurdi, had the theme: "The Nigerian Judiciary at a Crossroads: Innovations, Accountability and Public Trust." Gbagyo emphasized the importance of the annual Legal Year ceremony, which provides an opportunity for legal professionals to review developments within the justice sector and identify priorities for the new year.
Gbagyo highlighted other legislation passed by the Assembly, including the Area Court Amendment Law 2026, subject to confirmation by the Chief Judge. Additionally, laws establishing the State Electricity Commission and the Water and Sanitation Regulatory Commission were also passed. These new laws demonstrate the Assembly's efforts to address various aspects of governance and public services in the state.
The NBA chairman conveyed goodwill from the 33rd President of the association, Mrs Oyinkansola Badejo-Okunsanya, SAN. She reiterated her commitment to improving relations between the Bar and the Bench through constructive engagement. Gbagyo commended Chief Judge Justice Maurice Ahemba Ikpambese for his leadership and efforts to improve court infrastructure, digitalise operations, and expand magisterial divisions across the state.
Under Chief Judge Ikpambese's leadership, renovation works at courts in Daudu, Tarka, Adikpo, Okpoga, and Makurdi have improved working conditions for judicial personnel. A health clinic was established at the High Court Complex for judiciary staff and lawyers, and initiatives promoting gender inclusion and protection of vulnerable groups were implemented. These developments demonstrate the judiciary's commitment to enhancing its services and working conditions.
Gbagyo welcomed plans to revive quarterly Bar-Bench meetings, describing the engagement as an avenue for addressing challenges affecting the administration of justice. He also appreciated Governor Alia for granting financial autonomy to the state judiciary and supporting infrastructure projects, including the construction of a new Ministry of Justice Complex and the harmonisation of the salary structure for members of the Law Officers Association of Nigeria (LOAN).
However, Gbagyo urged Governor Alia to approve robe allowances for law officers and praised the appointment of lawyers to strategic government positions. The NBA chairman acknowledged the governor's support for the judiciary and expressed hope that the retirement age bill would be signed into law. The bill's passage and implementation are expected to have a positive impact on the state's justice system.
Key points
- The Nigerian Bar Association branches in Benue State are urging Governor Hyacinth Alia to sign a bill extending the retirement age of magistrates and law officers.
- The bill aims to preserve the expertise of experienced legal practitioners within the state's justice system.
- The NBA also commended the governor for granting financial autonomy to the state judiciary and supporting infrastructure projects.
