Four magistrates and some judicial service staff, have been reportedly suspended by the Cross River State Judicial Service Commission over acts of misconduct, corruption, and judicial malpractices.

The Commission’s Secretary, Peter Ene, announced the suspension in a statement on Thursday, November 21, 2024.

The suspended magistrates, according to the Secretary, include Ushie Ushang, Port Court in Calabar; and Gabriel Ebebe, the Chief Magistrate’s Court, Edor, Ikom.

Others are Gabriel Agana, the Chief Magistrate’s Court, Effraya, Ikom; and Shadrach Orji, the Chief Magistrate’s Court Court 1, Ogoja

Ene said the magistrates were found guilty of corruption, falsification of records, judicial incompetence, drunkenness, and dereliction of duty, among others.

The secretary noted that while the four magistrates were suspended without pay, two others were sternly warned.

Ene further stated that three judicial officials were suspended without pay while a Chief Bailiff was given a warning letter.

He directed all affected magistrates to handover pending cases to their respective court registrars for necessary actions.

Ene further directed the magistrate in Calabar to hand over all pending files to the Administrative Chief Magistrate.

He stated that the commission’s decision was consistent with the provisions of Section 3, Rule 03305 of the Cross River Public Service Rules, 2004.

He reiterated the commitment of the commission to maintaining highest level of integrity and standards in judicial service delivery.

Ene added, “The commission will not hesitate to apply appropriate sanctions against any erring staff, particularly those saddled with judicial responsibilities.

“This will help to safeguard the integrity and accountability of the judicial system and sustain public confidence.”