The National Judicial Council (NJC), led by Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun, is preparing for a high-stakes meeting expected to address multiple allegations of misconduct involving prominent judicial officers across Nigeria. This upcoming meeting, the NJC’s final session for the year, is set to usher in a new era as Justice Kekere-Ekun has vowed to end impunity within the judiciary.
The NJC, established under Section 153 of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, holds the authority to appoint, promote, and discipline judicial officers, including dealing with allegations of ethical violations. This quarterly meeting has sparked widespread anticipation within legal circles, especially after the Chief Justice’s recent statements promising strict action against errant judges. A credible source within the NJC revealed that the meeting date will be confirmed upon Justice Kekere-Ekun’s return from an official assignment abroad.
According to insiders, Justice Kekere-Ekun is determined to restore public trust in Nigeria’s judiciary and address the recent surge in complaints. “The Chief Justice is keenly awaiting reports from various committees investigating allegations against judicial officers, signaling her intent to act decisively,” said a source close to the council.
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The NJC’s committees have been actively investigating misconduct claims, with 22 petitions involving 27 judges from federal and state courts submitted between May and August 2024 alone. Most of these complaints, reviewed by the NJC’s Preliminary Complaints Assessment Committee, were dismissed—18 were found either meritless, abandoned, or subjudice due to ongoing litigation. However, eight cases have been deemed serious enough to warrant further action, signaling potential disciplinary measures in the coming weeks.
Adding to this scrutiny, the NJC established eight additional panels in June 2024 to probe alleged misconduct by judges across various high courts and appellate courts. Of the 35 petitions filed against 33 judicial officers, only eight were found credible for further action.
The NJC’s anticipated decisions could mark a pivotal moment for Nigeria’s judiciary, addressing public calls for greater transparency and accountability.
