NJC Debunks Reports Of 34 Lawyers Failing Integrity Test, Says No Final Decision Taken

In a statement issued by its Secretary, Ahmed Gambo Saleh, the Council described the reports as inaccurate and misleading, stressing that they do not represent the true state of affairs regarding the ongoing selection process. He clarified that no final decision has been taken by the NJC on any of the candidates mentioned in the reports.

The Council explained that certain applicants were unable to proceed during the preliminary stages handled by the Federal Judicial Service Commission (FJSC) due to adverse findings linked to petitions submitted against them. Others, according to the statement, did not advance because they failed to attain the minimum qualifying score required to reach the interview stage before the NJC.

It was further emphasised that all activities referenced in the disputed reports were carried out solely at the level of the FJSC, adding that the NJC has neither approved nor rejected any candidate at this stage. The Council also clarified that there is no separate or newly introduced “integrity test” whose failure automatically disqualifies candidates from the process.

The NJC noted that the appointment procedure is comprehensive and multi-layered, involving written examinations, clearly defined performance benchmarks, background checks, consideration of petitions where applicable, and interviews conducted strictly in line with established guidelines.

Expressing concern over the publication of what it described as speculative and unverified information, the Council warned that such reports could mislead the public and unfairly damage the reputation of candidates who participated in the exercise in good faith.

The statement disclosed that the NJC has commenced internal inquiries to determine the source of the unauthorised information released to the media and assured that appropriate measures would be taken to safeguard the integrity of its processes.

Reaffirming its commitment to transparency, fairness, due process, and high ethical standards within the judiciary, the Council urged media organisations to seek clarification through official and authorised channels before publishing reports on sensitive institutional matters.