Citizens’ Gavel, a civic tech organization focused on justice sector reforms, is calling on the National Judicial Council (NJC) to adopt a more transparent and proportionate approach in disciplining judicial officers who violate ethical standards.
The organization made this call in response to growing public concern over recent instances of misconduct by members of the judiciary, which have gone unpunished or have attracted disproportionately mild consequences. Citizens’ Gavel emphasizes that for the Nigerian public to maintain trust in the judiciary, it is crucial that the NJC administers sanctions that reflect the gravity of the offenses committed.
“In a democracy, the judiciary must be seen as impartial, fair, and accountable,” said Nelson Olanipekun, Founder of Citizens’ Gavel. “Failure to address misconduct within the judiciary not only undermines public trust but also emboldens impunity. Proportionate sanctions are not just punitive—they are preventive.”
Citizens’ Gavel is urging the NJC to implement clearer disciplinary guidelines and ensure timely, publicized resolutions to complaints against judicial officers. The organization also advocates for greater civil society participation in judicial oversight mechanisms.