From Okwe Obi, Abuja
The National Judicial Council (NJC), has been charged to revise its disciplinary guidelines to ensure that egregious misconduct attracts proportionate sanctions, like dismissal and disqualification from future judicial appointments, of erring judges.
This was contained in a statement yesterday by the Executive Director of Citizens’ Gavel, civic-tech organization, Nelson Olanipekun, following the suspension of some judicial officers.
Olanipekun also suggested an overhaul of appointment and promotion processes to prevent compromised officers from ascending to higher judicial offices.
He commended the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kekere-Ekun, for wielding the big stick by sanctioning judges.
He said: “Justice Kekere-Ekun’s push for zero tolerance of judicial misconduct—highlighted at the 2024 Judges’ Performance Conference—has propelled reforms, including digital case management, officer training, and more transparent disciplinary processes.
“These steps align with best practices and echo recommendations Citizens’ Gavel submitted to the CJN in September 2024.
“A Call to Sustain the Momentum
While this action is a step in the right direction, Citizens’ Gavel notes, in alignment with public concerns, that a one-year suspension falls short of the gravity of the offense especially in a case like this where the judicial officers have exhibited sustained impunity and disregard for due process.
“Citizens’ Gavel therefore calls on the NJC to not only sustain but intensify its accountability efforts by:
Revising disciplinary guidelines to ensure that egregious misconduct attracts proportionate sanctions, including dismissal and disqualification from future judicial appointments.
“Overhauling the appointment and promotion processes to prevent compromised officers from ascending to higher judicial offices.
“Strengthening whistleblower protections and creating more accessible, transparent channels for reporting judicial misconduct.
“Collaborating closely with civil society, the Nigerian Bar Association, and other stakeholders to design and implement systemic reforms that address root causes of judicial compromise.
“In conclusion, we urge the Council to seize this moment to deliver transformative change.
“The integrity and independence of Nigeria’s judiciary depend on a firm commitment not just to discipline but to deep, structural reform.
“Citizens’ Gavel remains steadfast in its commitment to work alongside all stakeholders to uphold justice, foster public trust, and ensure that no judicial officer is above the law.”