The Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, is scheduled to appear before the National Judicial Council (NJC) probe panel on Tuesday, October 29, to address concerns regarding certain rulings from his court related to the ongoing political disputes in Rivers State.
The NJC will examine petitions filed by various lawyers and litigants questioning why cases tied to Rivers’ political situation are being heard in Abuja instead of the Port Harcourt division of the court.
Prominent human rights lawyer Femi Falana recently sent a letter to Justice Tsoho questioning the transfer of Port Harcourt-originated cases to Abuja despite the Port Harcourt division having five judges available. Falana highlighted concerns about perceptions that judgments might be “procured” in Abuja, particularly given past instances where high-profile election tribunals were moved to the capital for security reasons.
One particular instance involved Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Abuja division, who, when asked to recuse herself in favor of the Port Harcourt division, declined, stating that only the Chief Judge holds the administrative authority to assign cases.
In addition to Justice Tsoho’s appearance, the Chief Judge of Rivers State High Court is set to face the NJC next week to address concerns regarding conflicting orders issued by judges within the state’s judiciary.
