The Kogi State Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has ordered the compulsory retirement of Area Court Judge, Alemeru Adekunle Bamidele, following findings of misconduct.
In a statement issued on Thursday by the Commission’s Secretary, Dr. Tanko Muhammed, the JSC also announced the suspension of Magistrate Tanimu U. Muhammed from judicial duties for a period of two years, along with a formal warning.
These disciplinary actions were part of the resolutions reached during the Commission’s 136th meeting held in Lokoja.
Meanwhile, four other judicial officers—Magistrate Abdul Musa Mopah, Mr. Yunusa Medugu, Barr. Deborah O. Ebiloma, and Mrs. Anuhi Safiya Oiza—were cleared of allegations against them after due investigation.
Dr. Muhammed explained that the disciplinary committee had investigated the allegations and submitted its recommendations to the full commission.
The sacked judge was found guilty of purchasing a property that was under litigation in his court. He had previously ordered the sale of the property and then acquired it without completing full payment.
Additionally, he was accused of issuing a court order without granting both parties a fair hearing.
To address ongoing concerns about judicial welfare, the Commission has also set up a six-member committee, chaired by the state Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Muizudeen Abdullah, to explore ways to enhance the wellbeing of magistrates and area court judges in the state.