El-Rufai presses NJC for action on judge over alleged bias
Former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai has called for urgent intervention by the National Judicial Council (NJC) regarding his petition against Justice R.M. Aikawa. El-Rufai alleges bias, denial of fair hearing, and judicial misconduct by the judge handling his criminal case. He expressed frustration over the NJC's delay in addressing his complaint and warned about the potential erosion of public confidence in the judiciary. The NJC has confirmed that the petition is still under review.
What we know
- Nasir El-Rufai submitted a petition to the NJC alleging misconduct and bias by Justice R.M. Aikawa in his ongoing criminal case.
- In a second reminder letter dated March 9, 2026, El-Rufai criticized the NJC for its prolonged silence and delay.
- The NJC, in a response dated March 24, 2026, stated that the petition is under review by its Preliminary Complaints Assessment Committee.
- The Chief Justice had forwarded the petition to Justice Aikawa on March 21, 2025, but the judge responded only after a reminder in November 2025.
- El-Rufai’s petition relates to Suit No. FHC/KD/CS/55/2024, involving allegations of judicial impropriety in a case with the Kaduna State House of Assembly.
