Breaking News: Court Stops Benue Governor From Probing Ortom
The High Court in Benue State has issued a temporary restraining order preventing the state government from moving forward with its investigation into the administration of former Governor Chief Samuel Ortom.
Following the establishment of a commission of inquiry by the government to look into the financial affairs of the Benue State Government during Samuel Ortom's tenure from May 29, 2015, to May 28, 2023, the court has intervened.
A court directive now blocks the panel from gathering pending a decision on a request submitted by former Governor Samuel Ortom. Justice T. T. Asua granted the order following an ex-parte motion seeking to stop the commission from taking any action mentioned in the terms of reference as set out in the Benue State Gazette No. 17, Vol. 49 of February 27, 2024, as authorized by the Governor.
Representing Chief Ortom, his legal counsel Oba Maduabuchi, SAN, argued that the Auditor General, as per the constitution, had already conducted investigations into the state's finances and submitted reports to the State House of Assembly. Maduabuchi asserted that all matters outlined in the commission's terms of reference had been addressed by the Auditor General and the State Assembly, rendering the commission unnecessary.
Justice T. T. Asua granted the motion, recognizing the applicant's significant interest in the case. The court additionally scheduled a hearing for the official notice within 14 days and restrained the commission from proceeding with its investigations until the matter is further deliberated.