The National Judicial Council (NJC), led by Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, is set to hold a crucial meeting soon to examine findings from recent investigations into alleged misconduct by several judges. This gathering, marking Justice Kekere-Ekun’s first quarterly meeting as CJN, has caused tension across the judiciary as it aims to enforce accountability for errant judges.
Sources indicate that the CJN, currently on an official assignment abroad, is determined to restore public trust in the judiciary. Under her watch, the NJC has already dismissed 18 of 55 petitions filed this year, while 12 cases remain active after preliminary assessments and further investigations by eight panels.
The NJC, established under Section 153 of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, has disciplinary authority over judicial officers. In addition to overseeing misconduct cases, the NJC faces mounting pressure from senior lawyers regarding recent controversial rulings in Rivers State. Here, conflicting orders issued by two high court judges on local council elections drew criticism from legal luminaries, who argue that competing judicial jurisdictions in political cases weaken judicial integrity and endanger democratic stability.
As the NJC prepares for its final meeting of the year, its decisions could mark a pivotal moment for judicial accountability in Nigeria.
News Editor