An Abuja tribunal announced Monday that Nigerian chief justice Walter Onnoghen is ordered to appear in the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT) on February 13.

Last week, the CCT dismissed a request by the chief judge to halt the proceedings on the alleged false declaration of assets.

Chairman of the tribunal Danladi Umar stated, “The defendant must appear in court on the next sitting of this tribunal. He has to appear, be arraigned and thereafter he can raise any objection, if he has any.”

Several countries have expressed suspicion following Onnoghen’s recent suspension. This decision raises concerns amid the upcoming February 16 election, since the chief judge plays a primary role in resolving all electoral disputes.