Kano Judiciary Sanctions Judges, Registrars For Misconduct

  The Kano State Judicial Service Commission has taken disciplinary action against two court registrars and two Upper Shari’a Court judges over misconduct. This was contained in a statement issued by the spokesperson for the Kano State Judiciary, Mr Baba Jibo-Ibrahim, on Monday in Kano. He said that the decision was part of the resolutions reached at the JSC’s 80th meeting held on April 22, 2025. He said the commission, in line with its mandate, adopted the recommendations of the investigation carried out by the Judiciary Public Complaints Committee and resolved to suspend and issue formal warnings to them. Those suspended are Ibrahim Adamu, Principal Registrar II of the Kano High Court, and Maigida Lawan, Principal Registrar of the Sharia Court of Appeal. Upper Sharia Court Judges Alkali Mansur Ibrahim and Nasiru Ahmad were issued warnings. Jibo-Ibrahim said Adamu, a Principal Registrar II of the Kano High Court of Justice, was suspended without pay for six months. The statement added, “His promotion is deferred after a finding that confirmed he verbally assaulted and attempted to use physical force against his superior officer, amounting to gross misconduct in violation of the provisions of the Kano State Civil Service Rules 2004 and the JSC Regulations. “This is the second time Adamu has appeared before an investigative committee for violence-related actions at work, and he has been issued a series of queries.” The commission found Adamu’s actions to be grossly unbecoming of his office and imposed the appropriate disciplinary sanctions. The statement said Lawan, a Principal Registrar of the Kano State Sharia Court of Appeal, was suspended without pay for six months, immediately, after being found guilty of demanding and accepting improper gratification under false pretences. “The commission adopted the recommendation of the JPCC, and Lawan was demoted by one grade level (from GL-13 down to GL-12),” the statement read. He said that the commission issued a warning to Malam Mansur Ibrahim, an Upper Shari’a Court judge, after evidence confirmed he used insulting and abusive language towards a litigant. The JSC also issued a formal warning to Nasiru Ahmad, an Upper Shari’a Court judge, for ordering the detention of a judgment debtor in a manner that suggested personal interest and compromised judicial impartiality. He emphasised that discretionary powers must be exercised with the utmost fairness and objectivity to preserve public confidence in the judiciary. The JSC reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy towards misconduct and corruption. “These measures underscore the State Commission’s commitment to accountability, transparency, and the rule of law. “All judicial officers and staff are reminded to conduct themselves in a manner that reflects the honour and trust vested in them by the people of Kano State,” the statement added. Jibo-Ibrahim warned all court staff not to engage in any corrupt practices, as anyone found engaging in corruption will be directed to proceed on compulsory retirement, as the JSC will not condone any act of corruption NAN

Makinde Restates Commitment To Judiciary At 2024/2025 Legal Year Church Service

  By Adeleke Maria    Oyo State Governor Engr. Seyi Makinde has reiterated his dedication to the judiciary, emphasizing the importance of a more efficient administration of justice. Governor Makinde reiterated this commitment at a Special Church Service to mark the beginning of the 2024/2025 Legal Year of the Oyo State Judiciary. The Governor who was represented by the Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin took the first lesson from Zephaniah 2 :1-15 at the Service. Engr. Seyi Makinde reflected on the past year’s achievements and challenges, highlighting significant legal developments, legislative reforms, and judicial decisions that have shaped Nigeria’s legal landscape. A significant milestone in our commitment to the rule of law is the establishment of the Rule of Law Authority, headed by the Honourable Justice A.A. Aderemi (Rtd). This institution will play a pivotal role in overseeing the enforcement of laws, ensuring accountability, transparency, and fairness in the administration of justice. “I am pleased to announce that our administration remains steadfast in its support for the justice sector. Our commitment in providing necessary resources and infrastructure underscores our belief in a strong and independent justice system.” “The State Government has recently approved the purchase of 10 vehicles for new Judges, ensuring a full complement of judicial vehicles. Furthermore, there has been a substantial 300% increase in judges’ salaries and allowances, aiming to encourage greater efficiency and timeliness in judgment delivery. To complement the work of judges, the State Government has approved the appointment of 40 State Counsel to the Ministry of Justice. This will enhance the Ministry’s capacity to effectively represent the State in all courts within Oyo State.” “As we embark on this new legal year, let us renew our dedication to the noble profession of law and our commitment to upholding the rule of law. Let us strive for fair and impartial application of the law and ensure that justice is administered without fear or favour.” Governor Makinde urged legal practitioners to leverage technology to enhance efficiency and access to justice. He emphasized the importance of exploring innovative solutions to address challenges and ensure the legal profession remains relevant and responsive to societal needs. The Governor quoted Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., stressing the government’s crucial role in creating and maintaining a just and equitable society.