The Nasarawa State Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has dismissed Chief Magistrate Emmanuel A. Jatau for misconduct and abuse of power.
The disciplinary action followed a petition by human rights lawyer, Inibehe Effiong, submitted in August 2024, alleging forgery, illegality, and judicial overreach in the handling of Chioma Okoli’s case.
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Jatau, formerly of Masaka, Nasarawa State, has been demoted from Chief Magistrate II (GL 15) to Senior Magistrate I (GL 14) and relieved of all magisterial duties. This decision was based on recommendations from the Committee for Appointments, Promotions, and Discipline (CAPD).
The case involved the issuance of falsified arrest and remand warrants for Chioma Okoli, a Lagos resident, without proper jurisdiction. Effiong accused Jatau and others of fabricating documents to unlawfully transport Okoli to Nasarawa State.
In May 2024, Okoli was remanded at Suleja Correctional Centre following charges of conspiracy and cyberstalking over a Facebook review of Erisco Foods’ tomato product.
The case, which began in 2023, garnered significant attention after the CEO of Erisco Foods, Eric Omeofia, accused her of defaming his business.
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Okoli’s legal battles include a pending suit at the Federal High Court in Lagos against Erisco Foods Limited and the Nigeria Police Force, seeking enforcement of her fundamental rights.
Her lawyer, Inibehe Effiong, continues to advocate for her, emphasizing the miscarriage of justice and the harm caused to her during the proceedings.
This dismissal underscores the importance of accountability within the judiciary and raises critical concerns about the abuse of power in the justice system.