The National Judicial Council (NJC), chaired by the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has sanctioned five judicial officers for misconduct following its 107th meeting in Abuja.
Among the sanctions, Justice G.C. Aguma of the Rivers State High Court and Justice A.O. Nwabunike of the Anambra State High Court have both been suspended from performing judicial functions for one year and placed on a two-year watch-list.
Additionally, two judges—Justice T.E. Chukwuemeka Chikeka, Chief Judge of Imo State, and Kadi Babagana Mahdi, Grand Kadi of Yobe State—were recommended for compulsory retirement due to age falsification. Justice Chikeka was found to have two conflicting birthdates, one of which he altered in 2006, while Kadi Mahdi had three different birthdates recorded, with the actual date being in 1952. Both judges are also required to refund all salaries received in excess due to their extended service.
The NJC also addressed multiple complaints brought before its Preliminary Complaints Assessment Committee, reviewing 30 petitions. The committee dismissed 22 complaints for lacking merit and found two to be sub judice. Other complaints against judges, including Justice O.A. Ojo, Chief Judge of Osun State, are being investigated.
Regarding specific cases, Justice Aguma was found to have improperly facilitated a garnishee order by failing to question the legal basis for bringing the case before his court. Meanwhile, Justice Nwabunike breached judicial conduct by granting ex parte orders without the necessary filings.
The Council also issued cautions to other judges, including Justice I.A. Jamil of Kogi State and Justice J.J. Majebi, Chief Judge of Kogi State, for mishandling sensitive matters.
Further investigations and disciplinary actions were taken in several other cases, including those involving Justices Peter O. Lifu, Joyce Abdulmalik, and several others. The NJC emphasized its commitment to ensuring judicial integrity and vowed to report lawyers who file frivolous petitions to the appropriate disciplinary bodies.
In a positive note, the Council recommended 36 candidates for judicial appointments to various state governors.
