The Kano State Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has sanctioned two judiciary staff members over acts of forgery, absenteeism, and unethical behaviour, reinforcing its zero tolerance for misconduct within the judiciary.

In a statement released on Sunday by Baba Jibo Ibrahim, spokesperson for the Kano State Judiciary, the sanctions followed the 84th JSC meeting held on July 18, 2025.

One of the affected officials, Adamu Salisu, a registrar attached to the State High Court, was found guilty of:

  • Falsifying affidavits

  • Forging a bailiff's signature

  • Illegally signing documents as a Commissioner for Oaths

Salisu's actions were uncovered during an investigation by the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission. Upon admitting guilt, Salisu was:

  • Demoted from Grade Level 13 to 12

  • Removed as a Registrar

  • Issued a stern warning

The second official, Yusuf Ayuba, a clerical assistant at High Court No. 8, Miller Road, was found guilty of absenteeism, having abandoned his duty post for four consecutive months without any justification. Ayuba was demoted from Grade Level 5 to 4 following investigations by the Judiciary Public Complaints Committee (JPCC).

Broader Crackdown on Misconduct

The Commission has, in recent months, disciplined several judiciary officers:

  • In April 2025, Ibrahim Adamu, Principal Registrar II of the High Court, was suspended for six months without salary for verbal assault and attempted physical combat with a superior.

  • Maigida Lawan, Principal Registrar of the Sharia Court of Appeal, was demoted and suspended for six months without pay for demanding and receiving bribes under false pretenses.

  • Salisu Sule, another court registrar, was demoted for insults, intimidation, and abuse of office, with evidence from four misconduct complaints.

  • Ahmad Aliyu Danmaraya, Principal Registrar at the High Court Headquarters, was compulsorily retired for forging an affidavit, affixing a fake seal, and forging receipt numbers, despite not being a commissioner for oaths.

Judiciary’s Stance on Discipline

Spokesperson Ibrahim emphasized that these disciplinary measures are intended to deter misconduct and safeguard judicial integrity in Kano State. The Commission reiterated its commitment to maintaining discipline and addressing public concerns about judicial integrity and accountability.

These actions come amid growing national scrutiny of Nigeria's judiciary over integrity, ethics, and service delivery.