NJC warns judges, constitutes four committees to probe judicial officers

The National Judicial Council (NJC), chaired by Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, has constituted four committees to investigate petitions against Judicial officers.

NJC spokesman Soji Oye in a statement said the council took the decision at its 106th meeting which ended in August,15.

The statement released on Friday said NJC also reviewed 22 petitions filed against 27 judicial officers and empaneled four committees to investigate allegations in petitions deemed to have merit.

According to Oye, 18 petitions were dismissed due to lack of merit, abandonment, or ongoing litigation on them.

Those whose petitions were dismissed include high-profile judges such as the President of the Court of Appeal,Justice Monica B. Dongban-Mensem, and the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court (CJ) Hon. Justice J. T. Tsoho.

According to the statement NJC also evaluated the performance of 215 judges across the country, issuing letters ranging from commendation to non-performance.

The council said five judges were placed on a pre-sanction watchlist for poor performance, with potential sanctions pending if improvements are not made.

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

This followed his contentious letter to the CJN, questioning the Council’s decision on the appointment of the President of the Customary Court of Appeal in Oyo State.