The National Judicial Council (NJC) has confirmed receipt of a petition filed by human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, against Justice Mohammed Umar over allegations of judicial misconduct, stating that the complaint is already receiving official attention.
In a formal acknowledgment addressed to Sowore, the Council disclosed that “action is being taken” on the petition, indicating that the complaint has entered the NJC’s disciplinary process for consideration.
The petition stems from a series of contentious proceedings in the Federal High Court, where Sowore has repeatedly accused Justice Umar of bias, hostility and conduct inconsistent with the standards expected of a judicial officer. SaharaReporters had earlier reported that the activist sought the judge’s removal from his case, alleging that the court’s actions had undermined his constitutional right to a fair hearing.
Justice Umar had previously rejected an application requesting that he recuse himself from the trial, describing the allegations of bias as baseless and an attempt to frustrate the proceedings. The judge also revoked Sowore’s bail after he failed to appear in court on one occasion, although the order was later reversed and his bail restored.
While the NJC has not disclosed the timeline for determining the petition, its confirmation that the matter is under review suggests the Council has commenced its established process for examining allegations of judicial misconduct against serving judges. Under the Constitution, the NJC is empowered to investigate complaints against judicial officers and impose disciplinary sanctions where misconduct is established.