As Justice Olukayode Ariwola prepares to retire on August 22, the National Judicial Council (NJC) has set its sights on a comprehensive "house cleaning" exercise. This decisive move aims to address the performance and conduct of judicial officers, particularly those who served on election tribunal panels.
During a two-day meeting in Abuja, the NJC assessed a multitude of petitions received over the past year, marked by intense electoral litigation. The council has placed five judges on a watch list for subpar performance, warning them that failure to improve will result in sanctions.
In addition, the NJC evaluated the performance of Superior Court judges, issuing letters of commendation, appreciation, or concern to 215 judges across the federation. Conversely, the council cleared President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, and eight other justices of wrongdoing following a thorough investigation.
Chief Judge John Tsoho, alongside judges from the State High Courts of the Federal Capital Territory, Osun, Nasarawa, and others, had petitions against them dismissed due to lack of merit. This comprehensive review underscores the NJC's commitment to upholding the integrity and accountability of the judiciary.