Jigawa Judicial Commission Retires Shari’a Court Judge Over Corruption, Promotes Over 80 Staff

Wale Igbintade

In a decisive move to uphold integrity within the judiciary, Jigawa State Judicial Service Commission has compulsorily retired a Shari’a court judge for corruption and illegal detention, while approving the promotion of more than 80 staff members across various categories.

The action was announced following the 181st meeting of the commission, held in the state capital, Dutse.

The retired judge, Alkali Sadisu Muhammad Haruna, was found guilty of soliciting unlawful fees from a petitioner and illegally detaining him, acts described by the commission as gross violations of judicial ethics and abuse of office.

The case came to light after a petition by Abdullahi Hamza, which prompted an investigation by the commission.

Findings revealed that Haruna demanded and collected charges not provided for under the Jigawa State Shari’a Court Civil Procedure Rules (2012).

The illegal detention of the petitioner further compounded the misconduct, leading the commission to classify the actions as a serious breach of public trust.

“The compulsory retirement of Alkali Sadisu Muhammad Haruna sends a clear message that corruption and abuse of power by judicial officers will not be tolerated,” a statement from the commission said.

In a parallel development aimed at recognising merit and boosting staff morale, the commission approved the promotion of over 80 staff members.

The promotions were based on performance, years of service, and overall contribution to the judicial system, reflecting the commission’s commitment to professional development and motivation.

To strengthen the leadership structure within the State Shari’a Court of Appeal, the commission appointed Aliyu Muhammad as Deputy Chief Registrar I (Administration), Abdulrashid Alhassan as Deputy Chief Registrar II (Litigation), Isma’il Sani as Chief Inspector of Shari’a Courts, Umar Mallam as Director of Planning, Research and Statistics, Muhammad Lawan as Director of Personnel Management, and Kabiru Isyaku Gwaram as Deputy Chief Inspector.

The commission reiterated its dedication to promoting transparency, efficiency, and accountability within Jigawa State’s judiciary.

It emphasised that the dual approach of sanctioning misconduct and rewarding excellence was central to maintaining a judicial system that commanded public confidence.

“The commission remains committed to ensuring that judicial officers and staff perform their duties in accordance with the law and established regulations,” the statement added.

Abbas Rufa’i Wangara, Director of Publicity and Protocol Matters for the Judiciary, signed the release, assuring the public that such measures are part of continuous efforts to sanitise the system and uphold the highest standards of integrity.