*Advocates Reform of NJC, FJSC Leadership to Curb CJN Powers
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A Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Afam Osigwe, has called for reforms to reduce the powers of the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) as head of the National Judicial Council (NJC) and Federal Judicial Service Commission (FJSC).
In an interview with Punch newspaper, Osigwe said the CJN should not chair both the FJSC that recommends judges and the NJC that approves them. He argued this creates an impression of lack of objectivity and independence in the appointment process.
The senior lawyer recommended opening up FJSC membership to include civil society, reducing CJN’s control over appointments and separating the leadership of the bodies. However, he said the CJN can remain FJSC chair.
On the Supreme Court, Osigwe lamented that appointments favoured only Court of Appeal justices despite provisions allowing practicing lawyers and academics. He said this limits expertise, entrenches conservatism in judgments and leads to mass retirement.
The SAN advised appointing younger jurists from diverse backgrounds who can serve longer tenures. He also called for urgent filling of vacancies at the apex court. The senior advocate argued that appointing judges mainly from the lower courts to the Supreme Court deprives it of the expertise and perspectives of distinguished members of the bar and academia.
According to Osigwe, limiting appointment to judicial officers entrenches conservatism in Supreme Court decisions. He reiterated that the apex court needs a healthy mix of justices with diverse backgrounds and experience.
On welfare, Osigwe described current salaries and allowances of judicial officers across all levels as poor. He said improved conditions are required to eliminate susceptibility to corruption.
The ex-NBA secretary advocated automatic periodic review of judicial pay to reflect economic realities and match global standards. He said the number of awaiting trial inmates also demands accelerated reforms of the criminal justice system.
Osigwe rated the NBA’s advocacy role as crucial but asked it to balance engagement with government without taking sides. He admitted some lawyers’ actions contribute to delays but called for consequences including personal cost orders.
The senior advocate urged the Attorney-General to spearhead judicial reforms, push bills to improve the sector and address judges’ welfare.
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