The Kano State Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has taken decisive action against two officials from the Upper Shari’a Court in Gwarzo Local Government Area due to their involvement in corrupt practices.
Hudu Idris, a Registrar at the court, has been compulsorily retired and demoted by one grade level for accepting bribes totaling N214,000.
Additionally, the contract of Bala Gwarzo, a casual watchman at the same court, has been terminated with immediate effect.
These decisions were among the key resolutions reached during the 79th meeting of the JSC, chaired by the Chief Judge of Kano State, Justice Dije Aboki, on February 6, 2025.
The actions followed a thorough review of a petition filed by Alhaji Sani Gado, which accused both Idris and Gwarzo of intimidation and bribery.
Upon investigation, both individuals appeared before the Judiciary Public Complaints Committee (JPCC) and admitted their involvement in the corrupt practices.
The Kano State JSC emphasized its firm stance against corruption and misconduct within the judiciary.
In line with its commitment to upholding the integrity of the judiciary, the Commission adopted the recommendations of the JPCC and took the following actions:
- Compulsory retirement of Hudu Idris, with a demotion of one grade level prior to retirement.
- Immediate termination of Bala Gwarzo’s contract.
Reiterating its zero-tolerance policy, the Commission reaffirmed its dedication to maintaining discipline and public trust in the justice system.
In the same meeting, the Commission reviewed the suspensions of three judicial officers—Bilya Abdullahi, Auwalu Ibrahim Khalil, and Ismaila Garba—over allegations of forging a court reversal order.
The case, initiated by a complaint from Muzdalifa, was investigated by the JPCC and subsequently referred to the police.
However, following a review by the Director of Public Prosecution, it was concluded that there was insufficient evidence to prosecute the officers.
Consequently, the JSC lifted their suspensions with immediate effect.
In a significant step to enhance judicial efficiency, the JSC also approved the appointment of several individuals to key managerial positions within the Kano State Judiciary.
These appointments were made after careful consideration of the appointees’ work ethics, track records, integrity, and dedication to service.
The newly appointed officials include:
- Chief Magistrate Hajara Garba Ahmad – Acting Chief Registrar, High Court of Justice
- Musa Ibrahim Umar – Acting Deputy Chief Registrar (Administration & General Services), High Court of Justice
- Usman Adam – Acting Deputy Chief Registrar (Magistracy), High Court of Justice
- Fatima Garba Yakasai – Acting Deputy Chief Registrar (Legal), High Court of Justice
Additional appointments at the Kano State High Court of Justice include:
Chief Magistrate Hadiza Rabiu Bello – Acting Director, Judicial Service Commission
- Chief Magistrate Zuhura Madaki – Acting Director, Training Department
- Senior Magistrate Malikatu Mudh Nuraini – Acting Assistant Director, Training Department
The Kano State Judicial Service Commission reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to fostering a transparent, accountable, and efficient judicial system in the state.
