State Judicial Service Commission Takes Disciplinary Action Against Senior Staff

The Niger State Judicial Service Commission has taken significant disciplinary measures against several senior staff members due to alleged misconduct. The Commission has dismissed three staff members and demoted one other for their serious violations of the Commission’s regulations.
In a statement released on Monday by Hajiya Hauwa Isah, the Secretary of the Commission, it was revealed that the affected individuals are Mohammed Abubakar, Ahmed Usman, and Usman Isah, all from the High Court Division. Additionally, Fatima Sambo has been demoted by two grade levels. The statement was issued in Minna.

The dismissals and demotion were the result of serious misconduct that violated Regulation 58 of the Commission’s rules. Mohammed Abubakar, who holds the traditional title of “Galadima Raba Nupe,” was found guilty of disobeying lawful orders. He was absent from his duties since November 2023 without official leave or a valid reason, which led to his dismissal.

Ahmed Usman, a senior registrar at the probate department, was dismissed for gross misconduct and misappropriation of funds. An investigation revealed that Usman had misappropriated over N600,000, which was a clear breach of multiple provisions in Regulation 58. His actions were deemed highly inappropriate and damaging to the integrity of the Commission.

Usman Isah, a principal registrar at Magistrate Court 3 in Minna, was also dismissed. He was found guilty of being absent from his duty post without permission for over six months, which contravened the Commission’s regulations on attendance.
Fatima Sambo, a senior registrar in the probate department, faced demotion due to negligent conduct and the misappropriation of probate funds. An investigating committee found that Sambo’s actions did not meet the professional standards required by the Commission.The Commission held an emergency meeting on Thursday to address these issues, exercising its disciplinary powers under the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
The Commission emphasized that these actions were necessary to preserve the integrity of the judiciary and ensure public confidence in the legal system. The Commission’s decision highlights its commitment to maintaining high standards and accountability within the judicial service.