The National Judicial Council (NJC) has officially announced the suspension of two judges due to serious misconduct. Justice G. C. Aguma, serving on the High Court of Rivers State, and Justice A.O. Nwabunike of the Anambra State High Court are both suspended from performing any judicial functions for a duration of one year. This suspension is without pay, reflecting the NJC’s commitment to upholding judicial integrity. Furthermore, both judges will remain on a watch list for an additional two years following the conclusion of their suspension to ensure compliance with judicial standards.
This significant decision was made during the 107th meeting of the NJC, led by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, which took place over two days, November 13 and 14, 2024. During this meeting, a total of five serving judicial officers were subject to disciplinary action for various acts of misconduct, highlighting the NJC’s ongoing effort to maintain ethical standards within the judiciary.
In addition to these suspensions, the NJC has recommended the compulsory retirement of two high-ranking judicial officials for their involvement in age falsification. The individuals in question are Hon. Justice T. E. Chukwuemeka Chikeka, the Chief Judge of Imo State, and Hon. Kadi Babagana Mahdi, the Grand Kadi of Yobe State. The recommendation for their retirement underscores the seriousness with which the NJC addresses integrity issues.
Further, the NJC reviewed the findings from its Preliminary Complaints Assessment Committee, which evaluated a total of 30 petitions. Out of these, six committees were established to conduct deeper investigations into specific complaints. Meanwhile, 22 petitions were dismissed due to lack of merit, and two were categorized as sub judice, meaning they are currently under judicial consideration and cannot be discussed publicly.
Moreover, the NJC has initiated a thorough investigation into all complaints and petitions against Hon. Justice O. A. Ojo, the Chief Judge of Osun State, by empanelling a dedicated committee for this purpose.
More detailed information on these matters will be released at a later time.