The Kano State Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has disciplined several judges and court officials over various acts of misconduct, emphasizing its strict stance against judicial indiscipline.
In a statement released Thursday by judiciary spokesperson Baba Jibo-Ibrahim, the JSC outlined disciplinary decisions made during its Wednesday meeting.
One of the most severe actions was taken against Alkali Mustapha Kiru, a Kadi of the Sharia Court, who was recalled for one year. Kiru had issued a writ of possession in a closed farmland dispute case—despite the plaintiff’s failure to present a witness. He was also found to have unlawfully detained the petitioner for three weeks without proper court records, violating principles of fair hearing.
Another judge, Alkali Ahmad, was issued a warning after the Judiciary Public Complaints Committee (JPCC) found he had mishandled a criminal case, showing negligence and bypassing due legal procedures.
Senior Magistrate Sakina Aminu also received a warning for disregarding the Chief Judge’s directives and was advised to maintain professionalism, especially in her interactions with state counsels. She was also reminded to adhere to a circular prohibiting police prosecutors from participating in court proceedings.
Meanwhile, Court Registrar Salisu Sule was demoted one grade level after four separate complaints revealed a pattern of abusive behavior, including using the judiciary’s name to threaten and intimidate citizens. He had previously been warned in December 2024.
In contrast, two magistrates—Mustapha Sa’ad-Datti and Rabi Abdulkadir—were cleared after a review of their cases and reinstated, though they were reminded to maintain high standards of professionalism and integrity.
The commission also ordered the compulsory retirement of Ahmad Danmaraya, a principal registrar at the High Court in Kano, for gross misconduct. He was found guilty of forging an affidavit, using a fake court seal, and providing a falsified receipt number, despite not being authorized as a commissioner for oaths.
The JSC reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining integrity and accountability within Kano’s judicial system.