High Court Judge Expresses Worries Over Alleged Interference by Kano PCCAC
Justice Simon Amobeda of the Federal High Court in Kano has issued a strong warning against any attempts to influence judicial proceedings under his authority.
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During an open court session, Justice Amobeda addressed Usman Umar Fari, Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Kano chapter and legal counsel for the state’s Anti-Corruption Commission. He expressed concern over alleged interference by Muhuyi Magaji Rimin-Gado, the Chairman of the Kano Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission, in the judicial process.
The judge revealed that he has faced multiple petitions to the National Judicial Council (NJC) accusing him of bias and delaying rulings. He firmly defended his independence, stating that his judgments are based purely on the evidence presented, without favoritism.
“I am not a state high court judge; I am a Federal High Court judge, appointed by God. I will not be intimidated or influenced,” Justice Amobeda asserted. He referenced previous landmark decisions, such as the relocation of the Sabon Gari drug market, where he resisted external pressures to maintain legal integrity.
Justice Amobeda criticized the Anti-Corruption Commission for ignoring court orders and warned against actions that undermine the judiciary’s credibility. He called for legislative changes to prevent such overreach.
“I am committed to my role and will uphold justice without fear or favor,” he declared, highlighting the judiciary’s responsibility to protect rights and maintain order while rejecting any attempts to damage its reputation.
Attempts to obtain a comment from Chairman Rimin-Gado were unsuccessful, with a spokesperson for the Anti-Graft Agency declining to comment due to ongoing NJC proceedings.
