NBA Opposes CCB's Investigation of Justice Tsoho

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has issued a warning to the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) regarding its intention to investigate Justice John Tsoho, the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court. The NBA's letter, dated March 2, 2026, addressed to the CCB Chairman, emphasizes that the Constitution grants exclusive authority to the National Judicial Council (NJC) to investigate and discipline judicial officers.

The association describes the CCB's actions as a breach of constitutional provisions that safeguard judicial independence. Reports indicate that Justice Tsoho was summoned to respond to allegations of failing to declare certain bank accounts, which the NBA argues violates the doctrine of separation of powers as enshrined in the 1999 Constitution.

The NBA cites a Supreme Court decision in the case of FRN v. Nganjiwa, which affirmed that the NJC must first exercise disciplinary control over judicial officers before any criminal or quasi-criminal proceedings can commence.

Consequently, the NBA urges the CCB to withdraw its summons against Justice Tsoho and defer to the NJC for appropriate investigative action.