The Nasarawa State Judicial Service Commission has suspended Hon. Abdulsalam Abubakar Esq., the Chief Magistrate of the New Karu Magistrate Court, for a period of six months without pay.

The decision came after a thorough investigation into a petition filed by Oviemuno Obobolo Esq of Ovie Obobolo & Co, alleging abuse of judicial powers and unjustifiable freezing of bank accounts belonging to Mr. Israel Ukoko and Bridges & Stones Property Ltd.

The petition, received by the Commission, prompted the Committee for Appointments, Promotions, and Discipline (CAPD) to invite the petitioner to substantiate the allegations in the interest of fair hearing. Following deliberations, the Committee made recommendations to the Commission.

At its regular meeting held on May 24, 2024, the Nasarawa State Judicial Service Commission approved the findings and recommendations made by the CAPD. As a result, Hon. Abdulsalam Abubakar has been suspended for six months without pay and stripped of his magisterial duties. Furthermore, due to the severity of the offense, he has been banned from future elevation to the higher bench until further notice.

The Director of Human Resources, Ramatu Idris Esq., conveyed the Commission’s decision in a letter addressed to the petitioner, Oviemuno Urobulo Eso.

The letter, dated May 28, 2024, emphasized the Commission’s commitment to upholding the integrity of the judiciary and ensuring that judicial officers act within the confines of their authority.