Benue NBA urges Alia to sign retirement age bill for magistrates, law officers
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) branches in Makurdi, Gboko, and Otukpo have urged Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia to endorse legislation aimed at raising the retirement age for magistrates and law officers within the state Ministry of Justice.
The proposed bill, which the Benue State House of Assembly approved on May 6, 2026, is intended to retain the expertise of seasoned legal professionals in the state’s justice system.
Joseph Mtemdoo Gbagyo, chairman of the Makurdi NBA branch, made the appeal on behalf of the three branches during the opening ceremony of the 2026/2027 Benue State Judiciary Legal Year at the High Court Complex in Makurdi. The event’s theme was “The Nigerian Judiciary at a Crossroads: Innovations, Accountability and Public Trust.”
During his remarks, Gbagyo noted that the annual Legal Year event allows legal professionals to assess recent developments in the justice sector and set priorities for the coming year.
He also mentioned the passage of additional legislation by the Assembly, including the Area Court Amendment Law 2026, pending confirmation by the Chief Judge, along with measures to establish the State Electricity Commission and the Water and Sanitation Regulatory Commission.
Gbagyo delivered a message of goodwill from Mrs. Oyinkansola Badejo-Okunsanya, SAN, the 33rd president of the NBA, who emphasized her commitment to strengthening the relationship between the Bar and the Bench through meaningful dialogue.
The NBA chairman acknowledged the efforts of Chief Judge Maurice Ahemba Ikpambese in enhancing court infrastructure, digitizing operations, and increasing the number of magisterial divisions throughout the state. He highlighted renovations at courts in Daudu, Tarka, Adikpo, Okpoga, and Makurdi as significant improvements for judicial personnel.
He also recognized the establishment of a health clinic at the High Court Complex, which supports judiciary staff and lawyers, along with initiatives aimed at promoting gender inclusion and protecting vulnerable groups.
Gbagyo expressed support for plans to revive quarterly Bar-Bench meetings, characterizing these gatherings as opportunities to address challenges within the justice administration.
Additionally, he commended Governor Alia for granting financial autonomy to the state judiciary and for his support of infrastructure projects, such as the construction of a new Ministry of Justice Complex and the harmonization of salaries for members of the Law Officers Association of Nigeria (LOAN).
However, he urged the governor to approve robe allowances for law officers to further support their work.
Furthermore, Gbagyo praised the appointment of legal professionals to key government roles, including Secretary to the State Government, Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Chief of Staff to the Governor, and Principal Special Assistant on Legal Matters.
