The Kano State Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has taken disciplinary action against some court officials over alleged intimidation and illegal monetary demands.
Baba Jibo Ibrahim, spokesperson of the JSC in a statement said the decision was part of resolutions led by Chief Judge, Justice Dije Abdu Aboki during its 79th Meeting, held on the 6th of February 2025,
He said the Commission reviewed the findings of the Judiciary Public Complaints Committee (JPCC) regarding a petition filed by one Sani Bozo Rimin Gado against Idris, a Registrar at the Upper Sharia Court, Gwarzo, and Bala Gwarzo, a casual watchman at the same court.
He maintained that the petition alleged intimidation and illegal monetary demands by the two court staff.
According to the statement, Hudu Idris a Registrar at Upper Shari’a Court Gwarzo in Kano State has been demoted by one grade level and placed on compulsory retirement with immediate effect for receiving bribes.
Similarly, the contract appointment of Abba Bala Gwarzo, a casual watchman at the same Court has been terminated with immediate effect.
The statement read; “Following a thorough investigation, both individuals appeared before the JPCC and admitted their involvement in corrupt practices amounting to N214,000.
“In line with its commitment to upholding the integrity of the judiciary, the Judicial Service Commission adopted the recommendations of the JPCC and took the following actions.”
The statement added that the JSC reiterates its zero-tolerance policy towards corruption and misconduct within the judiciary.
“The Commission remains steadfast in its duty to maintain discipline and uphold public trust in the justice system,” the statement maintained.
It added that the Commission, in the same meeting, deliberated on the suspension of Bilya Abdullahi, Auwalu Ibrahim Khalil, and Ismaila Garba following a complaint lodged by one Muzdalifa regarding an alleged forgery of a court reversal order.
“The case was thoroughly investigated by the Judiciary Public Complaints Committee (JPCC) and subsequently referred to the police for further inquiry.
“The Police investigation was forwarded to the office of the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) where the DPP’s advice reveals that there is no sufficient evidence to prosecute them.
“In light of these findings, the Commission resolved to lift the suspension of the aforementioned officers with immediate effect.
Bilya Abdullahi has been issued a warning to desist from illegal and unethical actions.
The statement further explained that the Commission under the Chairmanship of Justice Dije Abdu Aboki, at its 79th meeting held on the 6th of February 2025, approved the appointment of the following individuals to key managerial positions within the Kano State Judiciary.
“These appointments were made after careful consideration of their work ethics, and track records and in recognition of their hard work, humility, integrity, total commitment, and dedication to serving the judiciary.
“They are Chief Magistrate Hajara Garba Ahmad – Appointed as Acting Chief Registrar Highsai Kuma Court of Justice, Musa Ibrahim Umar – Appointed as Acting Deputy Chief Registrar (Administration & General Services) High Court of Justice, Usman Adam – Appointed as Acting Deputy Chief Registrar (Magistracy) High Court of Justice and Fatima Garba Yakasai – Appointed as Acting Deputy Chief Registrar (Legal) High Court of Justice.”
The statement highlighted that other appointments at the Kano State High Court of Justice include: Chief Magistrate Hadiza Rabiu Bello – Appointed as Acting Director of Judicial Service Commission, Chief Magistrate Zuhura Madaki – Appointed as Acting Director, Training Department and Senior Magistrate Malikatu Mudh Nuraini – Appointed as Acting Assistant Director, Training Department.
