The Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Terhemba Tsoho, has formally acknowledged receipt of an invitation from the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) and has affirmed his readiness to comply with the agency’s request. The court emphasized that the Chief Judge is committed to cooperating fully with the bureau in line with legal requirements and constitutional provisions governing public office accountability.
In an official statement released on Monday by the Director of Information for the Federal High Court, Catherine Christopher, the court clarified that Justice Tsoho would appear before the bureau accompanied by his legal representative, Kanu Godwin Agabi, CON, SAN. Agabi is currently abroad for medical treatment but has indicated his willingness to join the Chief Judge upon his return to Nigeria to ensure that all legal protocols are observed.
The statement underlined that Justice Tsoho’s appearance before the bureau would be in strict adherence to due process, highlighting the judge’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and respect for the rule of law. Christopher also conveyed that the bureau had been informed that any date within the week beginning Monday, March 16, 2026, would be suitable for the Chief Judge and his counsel to attend the proceedings.
“The Honourable Chief Judge remains fully committed to cooperating with the Code of Conduct Bureau and to participating in its processes in accordance with the law,” the statement read. “In line with his constitutional right to consult and be represented by counsel of his choice, his legal representative, Kanu Godwin Agabi, SAN, has indicated readiness to accompany him to the bureau upon his return to the country.”
The planned engagement with the CCB follows concerns raised over Justice Tsoho’s asset declarations as a public officer. Under Nigeria’s Code of Conduct Bureau and Tribunal Act, public officers are legally required to submit accurate declarations of all assets, liabilities, and bank accounts, including domiciliary accounts. Failure to declare assets correctly, or submission of incomplete information, can result in penalties ranging from removal from office to disqualification from holding public office for up to ten years, as well as forfeiture of undeclared or improperly declared assets.
The bureau’s invitation to Justice Tsoho is part of its regulatory oversight duties and underscores its mandate to ensure compliance with the nation’s code of conduct laws. While specific details of the allegations have not been publicly disclosed by the agency, the court reiterated that the Chief Judge is fully prepared to engage with the bureau and respond to any queries in accordance with the law.
Observers note that Justice Tsoho’s willingness to appear before the CCB, accompanied by legal counsel, reflects an emphasis on due process and the protection of constitutional rights. The court has reassured the public that the proceedings will be conducted transparently and with full adherence to legal standards, reinforcing the importance of accountability and integrity in Nigeria’s judiciary.
The Federal High Court also emphasized that Justice Tsoho’s cooperation with the bureau is part of a broader commitment to uphold the ethical standards expected of public officials. By engaging with the CCB and ensuring that all legal obligations are met, the Chief Judge seeks to maintain public confidence in the judiciary and demonstrate a commitment to the principles of good governance.
As preparations continue for his appearance, the court has reiterated that all interactions with the bureau will be conducted professionally, with full respect for both statutory requirements and constitutional safeguards, ensuring that Justice Tsoho’s rights as a public officer are protected while also addressing the agency’s oversight responsibilities.
Post comments (0)