By Sharon Akuboh
The Coalition of Civil Society Groups for Peace, Security, Good Governance, Equity and Justice (CCSG-PSGEJ), led by Comrade James Okoronkwo, has strongly condemned the summons issued by the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) to the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Hon. Justice John Tsoho.
In a statement released in Abuja, the Coalition described the action as unconstitutional, procedurally flawed, and a dangerous encroachment on judicial independence. According to the group, the summons directly contravenes the binding precedent established in Nganjiwa v. FRN, which affirms that judicial officers cannot be subjected to criminal or quasi-criminal proceedings for acts carried out in the course of their official duties unless and until the National Judicial Council (NJC) has first exercised its disciplinary jurisdiction.
“The attempt by the CCB to summon a sitting Chief Judge without recourse to the NJC is a flagrant violation of constitutional safeguards and the doctrine of Separation of Powers,” the statement read. “Such actions undermine the institutional integrity of the judiciary and erode public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic framework.”
The Coalition further commended Justice Tsoho for what it described as his “measured transparency and respect for due process,” noting that he promptly briefed his lead counsel, Kanu Agabi, SAN, on the development. Although Chief Agabi is currently abroad for medical reasons, he has reportedly expressed full readiness to accompany the Chief Judge to the Bureau upon his return, in line with the law and established judicial protocols.
CCSG-PSGEJ emphasized that while accountability in public service is essential, it must be pursued strictly within the boundaries of constitutional provisions. The Coalition warned that bypassing the NJC in matters concerning judicial officers sets a troubling precedent capable of politicizing the judiciary and weakening democratic checks and balances.
“We insist that the CCB must respect the law, the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and the authority of the NJC. Any deviation from due process in matters involving judicial officers is unacceptable and must be resisted in the interest of justice and national stability,” the group stated.
The Coalition therefore called for the immediate withdrawal of the summons, urging all relevant authorities to act in a manner that safeguards judicial independence and upholds the Rule of Law.
This was contained in a statement
Signed by Comrade James Okoronkwo
National Coordinator, Coalition of Civil Society Groups for Peace, Security, Good Governance, Equity and Justice (CCSG-PSGEJ).