The National Judicial Council (NJC) has begun an inquiry into allegations of professional misconduct against Justice C.N. Ojugbana-Orishedere, President of the Delta State Customary Court of Appeal. The petition, submitted by human rights activist Ighorhiohwunu Aghogho on October 1, 2024, accuses Justice Ojugbana-Orishedere of unethical practices related to the execution of a judgment.
Aghogho alleged that the judgment in Suit No: UNACC/384T/18, dated December 4, 2019, was improperly executed by members of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN), Abraka Unit, under the supervision of Justice Ojugbana-Orishedere’s office. This execution reportedly took place despite the filing of a valid Notice of Appeal on January 29, 2020, and the fulfillment of all appeal conditions.
The petition also claims that Justice Ojugbana-Orishedere refused to instruct the Registrar of the Ughelli North Area Customary Court to compile the record of proceedings, which is essential for the appeal process, despite receiving a formal request.
The Chief Justice of Nigeria and NJC Chairman, Hon. Justice Kudurat M.O. Kekere-Ekun, acknowledged the petition. In her response, she noted that while some parts of the petition could not be revisited, the NJC is reviewing Aghogho’s concerns regarding the alleged improper execution of the judgment.
Aghogho emphasized that members of the VGN, a civil defense organization, were unauthorized to carry out the judgment’s execution on May 22, 2020. He accused them of unlawfully seizing properties worth over N100 million and trespassing on his premises at No. 1 Ogefere Street, Erho-Abraka. He also argued that the execution violated his right to a fair hearing under Section 36 of the 1999 Constitution.
He cited the Delta State Customary Court Rules 2019, which mandate an automatic stay of execution once an appeal is properly filed and conditions of appeal are met. He stressed that the unauthorized execution disregarded this legal provision, further undermining the judicial process.
Aghogho’s petition also questioned Justice Ojugbana-Orishedere’s professionalism, alleging that her actions eroded public confidence in the judiciary. “As the President of the Delta State Customary Court of Appeal, she is expected to uphold the highest ethical standards. Her reported actions may undermine the public’s trust in the judicial system,” he stated.
He called on the NJC to investigate the alleged misconduct thoroughly, stressing the need for transparency, accountability, and the preservation of judicial integrity. “The right to fair hearing ensures justice, equality, and impartiality in civil and criminal cases. Salvaging the integrity of our judiciary requires swift and decisive action,” he said.
The activist also reiterated the importance of strengthening the judiciary’s credibility, emphasizing that fairness and justice are cornerstones of democracy. He urged the NJC to take decisive steps to ensure public trust in the judiciary is restored.
As the NJC reviews the petition, the nation’s focus is on maintaining the judiciary’s integrity and ensuring that the principles of justice, accountability, and impartiality are upheld.
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