Court Bars Ex-Minister From Holding Public Office Over “Kangaroo Judgement” Comment

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has secured a court ruling against former Minister of Women Affairs Dame Pauline Tallen over “disparaging” remarks she made about a Federal High Court verdict.

In a judgment delivered on Monday, the FCT High Court declared Tallen’s description of the judgment as a “kangaroo judgment” to be unlawful. The court granted an injunction barring Tallen from holding public office unless she renders a published, signed apology within 30 days.

The case arose from Tallen’s criticism on October 15th, 2022 of a ruling in a suit involving Nuhu Ribadu and the APC. Despite demands by the NBA to retract the comments and apologize, Tallen refused to comply.

In its ruling, the court stated Tallen’s statement was “reckless,” scolded her conduct as “ignoble,” and condemned the remarks as “contemptuous” of the judiciary.

The NBA reiterates its commitment to upholding the integrity of the judiciary, emphasizing that those attempting to denigrate the judiciary will face legal consequences.

The association also pledges to hold judicial officers accountable for any breach of their code of conduct, urging them to uphold their oath and avoid actions compromising the appearance of impartiality.