The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has urged for a comprehensive overhaul of the National Judicial Council (NJC), citing the need for greater independence and accountability in the body responsible for judicial appointments and discipline.
Currently, the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) serves as the chairman of the NJC, a arrangement the NBA deems flawed.
According to the NBA, "The present composition of the NJC undermines its ability to effectively investigate and discipline judicial misconduct, thereby eroding public trust."
To address this, the NBA recommends a revised composition for the NJC, comprising six judicial officers appointed by the CJN, six lawyers nominated by the NBA, and six non-lawyers appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate.
The chairmanship of the NJC would rotate among the three constituent groups.
Furthermore, the NBA suggests the appointment of court administrators to manage administrative tasks, such as procurement and budgeting, to minimize corruption.
The association also advocates for the separation of judicial remuneration from the civil service, to bolster judicial independence and safeguard judicial officers' interests.
These proposals were presented at the recent national summit on justice sector reforms and were approved with modifications.
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