NJC Sets Up Panels to Probe Misconduct Allegations Against 27 Judges

A statement released on August 16 by NJC spokesperson Soji Oye indicated that the council dismissed petitions against several senior judicial officers, including the President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, and the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, among others.

Additionally, the NJC issued a letter of advice to Hon. Justice O. M. Olagunju of the Oyo State High Court, urging him to exercise caution in his judicial conduct, particularly in challenging situations.

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Oye noted that 18 petitions were dismissed due to lack of merit, abandonment, or being sub-judiced.

The statement detailed that the NJC, under the leadership of the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, GCON, at its 106th meeting, resolved to advise Hon. Justice Olagunju to be more circumspect in his judicial actions.

National Judicial Council

This resolution followed a review of a report from a committee that had been tasked with addressing concerns raised in a letter from Olagunju to the Chief Justice regarding the council’s policies on appointing the President of the Court of the Customary Court of Appeal, Oyo State.

The council reviewed 22 petitions against 27 judicial officers from various Federal and State High Courts and decided to form four investigative committees to address the valid concerns. Petitions against several other judges, including those serving in the Court of Appeal, Federal High Court, and various state courts, were dismissed.

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Furthermore, the NJC assessed the performance of 215 judges across the Federation, issuing commendations, appreciations, and performance warnings, and placed five judges on a pre-sanction watch list for inadequate performance. If these judges do not improve, they may face further sanctions.

In his final meeting before retirement, Chief Justice Olukayode Ariwoola expressed gratitude for the support from the council and its secretariat and encouraged continued cooperation with his successor. Council members also praised the outgoing Chief Justice and wished him well in retirement.

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