Federal Government approves CIBN disciplinary tribunal

The Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), has said the rules governing the conduct of the Institute’s disciplinary Tribunal recently approved by the federal government, has strengthened the confidence of its members and customers’ in the industry.

The Institute in a statement made available to newsmen on Thursday, in Lagos, said the new rules will enable it deliver its duties more efficiently.

The rules, which were consented to by the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, on behalf of the government, prescribes the proceedings to be observed by the Tribunal in the hearing and determination of complaints as well as recommending appropriate sanctions to be meted out to erring members of the Institute.

Under the rules “any complaint, written allegation or petition that relates to professional or ethical misconduct or breach of any of the provisions of the Banker’s Code of Conduct (BCC) in the Nigerian banking industry, shall be addressed to the Registrar and Chief Executive Officer of the CIBN.

While the disciplinary Tribunal adjudicates on cases of ethical and professional misconducts by CIBN members, the rules are expected to further improve and promote ethical practice and professionalism in the Nigerian banking industry.

The rules, which would guide the Tribunal has in its provisions, bestowed it with the role of appointment of Chairman and other members of the Tribunal, publication of decisions of the Tribunal, retention of exhibits and computation and extension of time.

Other provisions of the rules include; striking out of a case brought before the Tribunal, fixing of listing of hearing date, and service of notice by the secretary, holding proceedings in public or private hearings, publication of documents and information and hearing of witnesses among others.