The National Judicial Council (NJC) has taken several significant decisions, including the suspension of three judges for one year without pay due to misconduct. The affected judges are Justice Jane E. Inyang of the Court of Appeal, Uyo Division, Justice Inyang Ekwo of the Federal High Court, Abuja Division, and Justice Aminu Baffa Aliyu of the Federal High Court in Zamfara State.
The NJC also directed the Governor of Imo State to reverse the appointment of the acting Chief Judge and asked the acting Chief Judge and the President of the Customary Court of Appeal to show cause why disciplinary action should not be taken against them.
Additionally, the NJC empaneled nine committees to investigate 27 judicial officers for various allegations of misconduct, dismissed 29 petitions, and issued a letter of caution to a Federal High Court Judge.
The NJC emphasized the importance of merit-based appointments and transparency in the judicial appointment process. It also resolved that the constitutional provision on the appointment of an acting Chief Judge of a State does not give room for discretion and that the most senior Judge of the High Court should be appointed to perform the functions of the office.
The NJC’s decisions aim to promote integrity, accountability, and transparency within the judiciary.
