Top ranking judge retired, watchman fired over bribery scandal
The Kano State Judicial Service Commission has compulsorily retired Hudu Idris, a Registrar at the Upper Shari’a Court in Gwarzo, for accepting bribes.
He was also demoted by one grade level before his immediate retirement.
Additionally, the JSC has terminated the contract of Bala Gwarzo, a casual watchman at the same court, with immediate effect.
This decision was among the key resolutions reached during the 79th meeting of the JSC, chaired by the Chief Judge of Kano State, Justice Dije Aboki, on February 6, 2025.
According to a statement issued on Monday by Spokesman, Baba Ibrahim, the actions followed a thorough review of a petition filed by one Alhaji Sani Gado.
The petition accused both Idris and Bala Gwarzo of intimidation and bribery.
“Following a thorough investigation, both individuals appeared before the Judiciary Public Complaints Committee (JPCC) and admitted their involvement in corrupt practices amounting to N214,000,” the statement read.
The Kano State JSC emphasized its firm stance against corruption and misconduct within the judiciary.
“In line with its commitment to upholding the integrity of the judiciary, the Judicial Service Commission adopted the recommendations of the JPCC and took the following actions,” the statement continued.
Reiterating its zero-tolerance policy, the Commission reaffirmed its dedication to maintaining discipline and public trust in the justice system.
Suspensions Lifted
In the same meeting, the Commission reviewed the suspensions of three judicial officers—Bilya Abdullahi, Auwalu Ibrahim Khalil, and Ismaila Garba—over allegations of forging a court reversal order.
The case, initiated by a complaint from one Muzdalifa, was investigated by the JPCC and subsequently referred to the police.
However, following a review by the Director of Public Prosecution, it was concluded that there was insufficient evidence to prosecute the officers. Consequently, the JSC lifted their suspensions with immediate effect.
“In light of these findings, the Commission resolved to lift the suspension of the aforementioned officers with immediate effect, while Bilya Abdullahi has been issued a strong warning to desist from illegal and unethical actions, which will not be condoned by the Commission,” Baba Jibo stated.
In a significant step to enhance judicial efficiency, the JSC also approved the appointment of several individuals to key managerial positions within the Kano State Judiciary.
These appointments, according to the Commission, were made after careful consideration of the appointees’ work ethics, track records, integrity, and dedication to service.
The statement continued, ”The newly appointed officials include:
Chief Magistrate Hajara Garba Ahmad – Acting Chief Registrar, High Court of Justice
Musa Ibrahim Umar – Acting Deputy Chief Registrar (Administration & General Services), High Court of Justice
Usman Adam – Acting Deputy Chief Registrar (Magistracy), High Court of Justice
Fatima Garba Yakasai – Acting Deputy Chief Registrar (Legal), High Court of Justice”
Additional appointments at the Kano State High Court of Justice include:
Chief Magistrate Hadiza Rabiu Bello – Acting Director, Judicial Service Commission
Chief Magistrate Zuhura Madaki – Acting Director, Training Department
Senior Magistrate Malikatu Mudh Nuraini – Acting Assistant Director, Training Department
“These appointments were made after careful consideration of their work ethics, track records, and in recognition of their hard work, humility, integrity, total commitment, and dedication to serving the judiciary,” the statement concluded.
The Kano State Judicial Service Commission reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to fostering a transparent, accountable, and efficient judicial system in the state
