JUST IN: NJC Suspends Judges from Rivers, Anambra, Recommends Two Others for Retirement

The National Judicial Council (NJC) suspends judges from Rivers and Anambra States and recommends two additional judges for compulsory retirement over misconduct. 

Justices G. C. Aguma of the Rivers State High Court and A. O. Nwabunike of the Anambra State High Court have been prohibited from carrying out judicial responsibilities by the National Judicial Council (NJC).

The National Judicial Council (NJC), led by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, made this decision at its 107th meeting on November 13 and 14, 2024.

The judges were both suspended for a year without pay and will be monitored on a two-year watch list following their suspension.

Furthermore, the Council implemented disciplinary measures against five other active judicial officers due to various types of misconduct.

Two judicial leaders were also suggested for mandatory retirement due to falsifying their ages.

The Chief Judge of Imo State, Hon. Justice T. E. Chukwuemeka Chikeka, and the Grand Kadi of Yobe State, Hon. Kadi Babagana Mahdi, are set to resign due to verified inconsistencies in their reported ages.

The NJC examined the report from its Preliminary Complaints Assessment Committee, which oversaw 30 petitions. Of these, 22 were dismissed due to lack of merit and two others were deemed sub judice. The Council established six committees for further investigation of the remaining complaints and petitions.

Among other resolutions, a committee was formed to investigate all allegations and petitions concerning Hon. Justice O. A. Ojo, the Chief Judge of Osun State.