In response to the current shortage of justices at the Supreme Court, the National Judicial Council (NJC) has taken a significant step by selecting 11 justices to fill the vacant positions. This move comes after the retirement of Justice Musa Dattijo in October, which left the apex court with only 10 justices, falling short of the constitutionally prescribed 21.
The NJC thoroughly screened 22 candidates for the positions, singling out notable names such as Justice Haruna Tsammani. Justice Tsammani gained recognition for chairing the Presidential Election Petition Court, where he played a pivotal role in affirming President Bola Tinubu’s election.
The recommended candidates are now poised to move to the next stage of the process. The NJC’s list of 11 justices is expected to be forwarded to the President for approval before the end of the week. Once approved, the nominees will undergo the necessary swearing-in ceremonies to officially assume their positions at the Supreme Court.
This move by the NJC aims to restore the Supreme Court to its full complement of justices as outlined in the constitution, ensuring the effective and efficient functioning of the highest court in the land.
