The Registered Trustees of the Centre for Community Law (CCL), a Nigeria-based NGO, has instituted a suit before the ECOWAS Community Court of Justice against key ECOWAS institutions. The suit, filed on December 29, 2025, challenges the appointment and swearing-in of Dr. Habibu Yaya Bappah as Commissioner for Internal Services, alleging violations of the ECOWAS Revised Treaty and established procedures.
CCL’s counsel, Olufemi Ubose, Esq., argues that respondents acted unlawfully, particularly since a related matter was pending before the Court. The Centre questions whether the President of the ECOWAS Court of Justice lawfully swore in Dr. Bappah, given he’s presiding over a case relating to the same office. Dr. Bappah emerged third in the selection interview, behind Prof. Nazifi Abdullahi Darma (first) and Mrs. Chizoba Mojekwu (second).
The Applicants contend due process requires appointing the next highest-ranked candidate, not the lowest. They also reference Suit No. ECW/CCJ/APP/54/25, challenging Prof. Darma’s removal from office without a hearing. CCL warns that allowing respondents’ actions to stand would erode public confidence in ECOWAS institutions and undermine the rule of law.
Reliefs sought include declaring Dr. Bappah’s appointment unlawful, holding the ECOWAS Court President violated his oath, and ordering a fresh interview or appointing the second-ranked candidate.
