Legislators Petition Federal High Court To Suspend Ongoing Recruitment Procedure

In Abuja on Tuesday, the House of Representatives called on the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court to immediately suspend the ongoing recruitment process until adherence to the Federal Character principle and quota system is ensured………CONTINUE READING

The House further directed its Committees on FCT Judiciary and Judiciary to investigate the Federal Character approval granted for the recruitment and assess the level of compliance.

This decision was reached following the adoption of a motion titled “Urgent Need to Re-examine the list of Proposed States to fill the 12 vacancies created to the disadvantage of others in the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory,” sponsored by Hon. Igariwey Iduma Enwo.

Presenting the motion, the lawmaker emphasized that the High Court, established by Section 255 of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, must adhere to the Federal Character principle. He expressed concern over the proposed list of states to fill the 12 vacant positions in the High Courts of the Federal Capital Territory, which has sparked public outcry and protests from the media and civil society.

The motion highlighted that the proposed list is expected to be sent to the National Judicial Council by February 19, 2024, for vetting and subsequently to the Senate for confirmation.

The legislator pointed out that the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja (Number of Judges) Act 2003, mandates the application of the principle of Federal character in the appointment of Judges, ensuring representation from all 36 states and the FCT.

Of particular concern is the absence of judges from Ebonyi, Abia, Imo, and Bayelsa in the FCT High Court system. Notably, the motion revealed that Ebonyi State, in particular, faces double discrimination as none of its judges have been appointed, and the state was not included in the list of states to apply for the vacant positions.

The motion emphasized the availability of qualified magistrates and legal practitioners from the unrepresented states, expressing worry that the non-representation violates the constitutional requirement for staffing from all 36 states and the FCT.

The lawmaker concluded by highlighting the significance of the Federal Character Commission principle in promoting equality of access, preventing dominance by specific regions, and fostering national unity. Violating this constitutional principle, he warned, could lead to destabilization and potential litigation.

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Source: Bushradiogist