NJC Cracks Down: 10 Imo Judges Sacked Over Age Fraud, Unlawful Swearing-in; 21 New Appointments Made
In a sweeping move aimed at sanitizing Nigeria's judiciary, the National Judicial Council (NJC) concluded its 109th meeting on June 25, 2025, with far-reaching decisions on judicial appointments and disciplinary actions. Presided over by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Kudirat M. O. Kekere-Ekun, the meeting delivered a clear message: integrity and adherence to the law are paramount.
Imo Judiciary Hit Hard: Ten Judges Face Compulsory Retirement
The most significant outcome of the meeting was the recommendation for the compulsory retirement of ten judges from the Imo State Judiciary. This decisive action underscores the NJC's commitment to rooting out misconduct within the system.
Age Falsification Scandal: A shocking nine of these judges were found to have deliberately altered their dates of birth in official records. This calculated move was designed to illegally extend their service tenure, granting them an "undue advantage" over their colleagues and the system.
The implicated High Court Judges are: Hon. Justice M. E. Nwagboso, Hon. Justice B. C. Iheka, Hon. Justice K. A. Leaweanya, Hon. Justice Okereke Chinyere Ngozi, and Hon. Justice Innocent Chidi Ibeawuchi.
Similarly, Customary Court of Appeal Judges recommended for retirement for age falsification include: Hon. Justice Tennyson Nze, Hon. Justice Ofoha Uchenna, Hon. Justice Everyman Eleanya, and Hon. Justice Rosemond Ibe.
Unlawful Swearing-in: The tenth judge, Hon. Justice T. N. Nzeukwu, faced compulsory retirement for a blatant disregard of constitutional provisions. Justice Nzeukwu was found to have unlawfully allowed himself to be sworn in as the acting Chief Judge of the Imo State High Court, despite being only the fourth most senior judge and knowing this action directly contravened Section 271 (4) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
NJC Reaffirms Stance on Imo Leadership
In a strong affirmation of its authority, the NJC reiterated its previous directive to the Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodinma. The Council firmly insists that the Governor must appoint the most senior judicial officer as the acting Chief Judge of the Imo State High Court, in strict accordance with constitutional requirements. This move highlights an ongoing and public tension between the NJC and the Imo State Government regarding judicial appointments in the state.
Voluntary Retirements Approved
The Council also approved the voluntary retirement requests of two judges: Hon. Justice Babatunde Ademola Bakre of the Ogun State High Court and Hon. Justice H. O. Ajayi of the Kwara State High Court.
New Blood for the Bench: 21 Judicial Appointments Recommended
Looking to the future, the NJC greenlit the appointment of 21 new candidates to various judicial positions across the country. These recommendations are the culmination of a rigorous and transparent vetting process, including thorough consideration of public complaints against shortlisted candidates and in-depth interviews conducted by an 8-member Interview Committee. This process adheres strictly to the recently revised 2023 NJC Guidelines and Procedural Rules for Appointment of Judicial Officers.
New Heads of Court:
Hon. Justice Adekanye Lekan Ogunmoye is set to become the Chief Judge of Ekiti State.
Hon. Kadi Abba Mammadi has been recommended as the Grand Kadi of Yobe State.
Code of Conduct Tribunal Chairman: Mr. Mainasara Ibrahim Kogo Umar, Esq., has been recommended to President Bola Tinubu for appointment as the new Chairman of the Code of Conduct Tribunal.
Judges for High Courts, Sharia Courts of Appeal, and Customary Courts of Appeal: The recommended list includes new judges for Cross River, Ogun, Zamfara, Plateau, Katsina, and Ebonyi States, ensuring fresh perspectives and capabilities across various judicial divisions.
Beyond Appointments: Disciplinary Actions and Blacklisting
The NJC's meeting wasn't just about new appointments; it also saw firm disciplinary actions:
Promotion Barred: Hon. Justice Isaac J. Essien of the National Industrial Court (NIC) will not be considered for promotion to a higher court for three years, a penalty imposed due to proven misconduct.
Cautions Issued: At least one judge, Justice Sa'adatu Mark of the Federal High Court, received a caution for failing to deliver judgment within the constitutionally mandated 90 days.
Petitions Dismissed: Several petitions against other judges were dismissed after thorough review found them to be without merit, or were voluntarily withdrawn by the petitioners.
"Serial Petitioner" Blacklisted: In a stern warning against frivolous complaints, Mr. Peter N. Ekemezie, identified as a "serial petitioner," has been officially blacklisted from submitting any further complaints to the Council.
These crucial decisions by the NJC are integral to upholding the integrity, independence, and effectiveness of Nigeria's judicial system. They demonstrate a proactive stance in addressing misconduct and ensuring that only qualified and ethical individuals serve on the bench.
