The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has dismissed a video circulating on social media claiming it arrested or is investigating Justice James Omotosho.
In a statement on Tuesday, ICPC spokesperson John Odey said the claim in the video is untrue and misleads the public.
According to the commission, it has neither arrested nor invited Justice Omotosho in relation to any investigation.
“The commission wishes to clarify that it has neither arrested nor invited Justice James Omotosho in relation to any investigation. The commission is also not investigating the judge as alleged in the video,” the statement said.
The commission urged members of the public to disregard the video and avoid sharing unverified information that could cause concern or damage reputations.
ICPC also stated that it does not have the mandate to investigate serving judicial officers. It said it respects members of the judiciary, including Omotosho.
“The ICPC has no mandate to investigate serving judicial officers. The commission has regard for Justice James Omotosho and all judicial officers in Nigeria,” the statement added.
The commission said it remains committed to professionalism and due process in carrying out its duties.
James Omotosho sits at the Federal High Court in Abuja. He has handled cases involving Nnamdi Kanu.
The claims about his arrest surfaced amid reports of inquiries by the National Judicial Council involving some judges.
Recently, the Code of Conduct Bureau invited the chief judge of the Federal High Court John Tsoho over allegations concerning asset declaration.
The court later confirmed the invitation and said Mr Tsoho would cooperate with the bureau.
However, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) said the invitation did not follow a court precedent that a judge must first be disciplined by the National Judicial Council before other agencies can investigate or prosecute the judge.
