According to Vanguard, Human rights organization, Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA), has taken action against Justice I.A. Jamil for what it perceives as interference in the administration of justice regarding the case involving former Kogi Governor, Yahaya Bello, and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). HEDA has filed a petition with the National Judicial Council (NJC) seeking sanctions against Justice Jamil.
In its petition, HEDA accuses Justice Jamil of obstructing the prosecution of ex-governor Yahaya Bello by granting an unwarranted restraining order against his arrest and investigation by the EFCC. The organization alleges that Justice Jamil’s actions are against the interest of justice and good conscience, citing gross abuse of judicial powers.
HEDA points out that the order to show cause granted by Justice Jamil was made under questionable circumstances and is intended to annoy and portray the EFCC in a negative light. The organization lists various grounds for its appeal for Justice Jamil’s punishment, including standing in the way of justice and exercising powers beyond his jurisdiction.
The petition, lodged by HEDA on April 29, 2024, and acknowledged by the Chief Justice of Nigeria on May 3, 2024, awaits consideration by the NJC. Meanwhile, former Governor Yahaya Bello has cited the injunction by Justice Jamil as justification for resisting arrest by EFCC operatives and declining to appear before a federal High Court in Abuja. However, the Federal High Court has ordered his arrest and appearance in court.