The National Judicial Council (NJC) at its 100th meeting on Thursday condmned in strong terms, the non-payment of retirement benefits, and gratuities of state judges across the country.
In a press statement signed by its Director of Information, Mr Soji Oye, the apex judicial body under the Chairmanship of the Chief Justice of Nigeria(CJN), Justice Olukayode Ariwoola deliberated on the worrisome situation whereby many Judicial Officers of the States are being owed their retirement benefits, including severance pay/gratuity and pensions.
After due consideration, Council condemns in very strong terms this act, which is undermining the Rule of Law and Section 6 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999.
It therefore calls on the offending States to ensure that all entitlement of retired Judges are fully settled forthwith.
Council further directed State Chief Judges to file reports on compliance, to reach the Council not later than April 1, 2023.
