KEY POINTS

• Judiciary Watch welcomes the NJC’s decision to suspend and suggest the resignation of judges found guilty.
• The evaluations by the NJC are now being applied for discipline purposes and to promote openness.
• The group hopes that other control agencies will use the same kinds of measures for accountability.

Following the reforms introduced by the National Judicial Council (NJC), a civic advocacy group, Judiciary Watch, has given credit to the NJC for trying to restore integrity and ethical guidelines in Nigeria’s court system.

In his statement, Mallam Bukar Hamza, the Chairman, said the group agrees with the NJC for effectively punishing judges who commit misconduct and also using performance reviews as a basis for accountability and appointments. They also said such actions manifest a high level of transparency and accountability.

Suspensions and retirements signal zero tolerance for misconduct

Judiciary Watch mentioned the NJC’s action in suspending two judges and also giving advice for two court heads to retire over claims of misbehavior. It also appreciated what the council has done to stop age fraud, saying it is vital to restore fans’ faith in soccer.

Hamza added that the NJC’s decision makes it clear that unethical actions are not accepted.

Judiciary reforms performance evaluation enhancing credibility

The watchdog pointed out that the work of the Judges’ Performance Evaluation Committee adds to the fairness of the system.

The internal checks put in place by the council are working well, the group said. The NJC makes sure to appraise conduct and regulate behavior, which adds credibility to the judiciary.