A brewing crisis is unfolding in Niger State, Nigeria, as the judiciary expresses deep concern over the delay in appointing High Court Judges. The National Judicial Commission (NJC) had published a list of recommended judicial officers for appointment to the superior court of records on May 5. However, two months have passed, and the NJC is yet to make the appointments, causing tension within the state’s judiciary.
The list included 14 candidates from Niger State shortlisted for the High Court and Sharia Court of Appeal. Among the shortlisted candidates for the High Court bench are notable figures such as Ahmad Ndajiwo, Saadatu Gambo, and Adamu Abubakar. Despite the eagerly awaited appointments, the NJC’s delay has raised eyebrows, and insider sources attribute the holdup to the state government’s failure to provide official residences and vehicles for the judges.
According to sources, it is the statutory responsibility of state governments to provide these amenities before the NJC can proceed with the appointments. However, Governor Umaru Bago’s reluctance to make these provisions has allegedly stemmed from the non-inclusion of one of his relatives on the shortlist. The relative in question did not apply for the position, and their exclusion has seemingly caused friction.
The spokesman for the National Judicial Council, Kemi Ogedengbe, confirmed that the provision of vehicles and residences is a prerequisite for judges’ appointments. “You can’t expect a High Court judge to work with a private vehicle or hired taxi to the office,” she emphasized. Ogedengbe also underscored that the governor has the exclusive power to make these provisions, and once they are ready, the government will notify the NJC to verify and collect the keys.
As the situation continues to unfold, other sources have appealed to Governor Bago to expedite the provision of vehicles and residences. The delay has sparked concerns that Niger State might lose out on the upcoming appointment of state high court judges. The governor’s office has remained mum on the issue, with attempts to reach the chief press secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, proving unsuccessful.
The Niger State judiciary’s anxiety is palpable, and the delay in appointments has significant implications for the administration of justice in the state. As the NJC awaits the state government’s provisions, the people of Niger State can only hope that the governor will prioritize the interests of justice and the state over personal considerations. The clock is ticking, and the fate of the state’s judiciary hangs in the balance.
