The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Ibadan Branch, has called on the Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, to urgently reconstitute the Oyo State Judicial Service Commission, which was dissolved in December 2024 following the expiration of its tenure in accordance with Section 199 (1) (c) of the 1999 Constitution, as amended.
In a letter addressed to the governor and signed by its Chairman, Ibrahim Lawal Esq., the NBA stressed the need for strict adherence to the provisions outlined in Paragraph 5 (a-f) of the Third Schedule, Part II of the Constitution when reconstituting the Commission. The letter, which was made available to journalists on Tuesday, emphasized that such compliance would prevent administrative issues that might arise in the execution of the Commission’s responsibilities.
Lawal highlighted the critical role of the Commission in the administration of justice within the state, stating, “The Commission is very important in the administration of justice in any state of the Federation. Its duties are designed to aid the smooth running of the judicial system.”
Quoting Paragraph 6 of the Third Schedule of the 1999 Constitution, the NBA chairman outlined the Commission’s powers, which include advising the National Judicial Council (NJC) on suitable candidates for judicial positions, recommending the removal of judicial officers when necessary, and overseeing the appointment, dismissal, and disciplinary control of various judicial staff within the state.
“It is clear, from the foregoing, that the Judicial Service Commission is so important that the non-constitution of its membership poses serious impediments to the effective administration of justice,” the NBA warned, urging Governor Makinde to expedite the reconstitution of the Commission despite his demanding schedule.
Concerns Over Welfare of Magistrates
Beyond the Commission’s reconstitution, the NBA also raised concerns about the welfare of magistrates and Presidents of Grade A Customary Courts in the state. The association decried the lack of operational vehicles for these judicial officers, describing the situation as “demeaning” and exposing them to unnecessary risks.
“Having these judicial officers struggle to take public transport to the office is appalling, to state the obvious,” the letter read. The NBA passionately appealed to the governor to address this issue with urgency, ensuring that the affected judicial officers receive the necessary logistical support to carry out their duties effectively.
The association further noted that reports suggest some vehicles may have already been procured but are yet to be distributed due to “administrative bottlenecks.” Urging Governor Makinde to intervene, Lawal stated, “We, most humbly, enjoin His Excellency to attend to this issue as quickly as the demands of his office allow.”
The NBA Ibadan Branch remains committed to advocating for judicial independence and improved working conditions for legal practitioners and judicial officers in Oyo State.
