The National Judicial Council (NJC) has initiated an investigation into a petition alleging misconduct by Justice C.N. Ojugbana-Orishedere, President of the Delta State Customary Court of Appeal.

The petition, filed by human rights activist Ighorhiohwunu Aghogho, claims that Justice Ojugbana-Orishedere’s office supervised the unlawful execution of a judgment by the Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN), Abraka Unit, despite a valid Notice of Appeal being filed.

According to the petition dated October 1, 2024, Justice Ojugbana-Orishedere’s office oversaw the execution of a judgment in Suit No: UNACC/384T/18 by members of the VGN on May 22, 2020. This execution allegedly took place despite Aghogho filing a Notice of Appeal on January 29, 2020, and fulfilling the necessary conditions of appeal.

Furthermore, the petition claims that Justice Ojugbana-Orishedere refused to direct the Registrar of the Ughelli North Area Customary Court to compile the record of proceedings, a crucial step in the appeal process, despite receiving a written petition on the matter.

Hon Justice Kudurat M.O. Kekere-Ekun, CFR, Chief Justice of Nigeria and Chairman of the NJC, acknowledged the petition. While the council stated it cannot review its decision on certain aspects of the petition, it confirmed that action is being taken on Aghogho’s submission in paragraph ‘C’, indicating the seriousness with which the NJC is treating the allegations.

The involvement of the VGN, a civil defense organization, in executing the judgment has raised concerns about the potential misuse of power and the undermining of judicial processes. Aghogho maintains that errors were committed during the execution and that the VGN members were unauthorized to initiate the forceful takeover of properties worth over N100 million, considering it criminal and unlawful.

Aghogho emphasizes the importance of the right to fair hearing, as guaranteed by Section 36 of the 1999 Constitution, and calls for a thorough investigation to ensure the integrity and impartiality of the judiciary. He believes that Justice Ojugbana-Orishedere’s alleged actions may undermine public trust in the judicial system.

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