The National Judicial Council (NJC), under the leadership of Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun, has taken disciplinary action against five judicial officers following its 107th meeting on November 13 and 14, 2024.
The sanctions were imposed for various acts of misconduct.
Among the key decisions, 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 judicial duties for one year without pay.
They will also be placed on the NJC’s “Watch-List” for two years following their suspension.
The NJC also recommended compulsory retirement for two senior judicial officers—Justice T. E. Chukwuemeka Chikeka, Chief Judge of Imo State, and Kadi Babagana Mahdi, Grand Kadi of Yobe State—for age falsification. Justice Chikeka was found to have submitted two conflicting birth dates, and an affidavit filed in 2006 that changed his birth date.
Similarly, Kadi Mahdi was discovered to have multiple inconsistent dates of birth, with his actual date being 1952, which means he should have retired 12 years ago.
Both officers are also required to refund salaries and allowances received in excess.
The NJC’s findings against Justice Aguma stemmed from his involvement in facilitating a garnishee order for a judgment obtained at the FCT High Court, Abuja, which was improperly filed in the Bori Division of Rivers State.
Aguma’s swift granting of the order, despite a stay of execution, raised concerns over his impartiality and involvement in the case.
In the case of Justice Nwabunike, the NJC determined that he violated the Revised Code of Conduct for Judicial Officers by granting ex parte orders without following due process, including the absence of a Motion on Notice.
His actions were deemed a breach of judicial conduct and an abuse of power.
The NJC also addressed 30 petitions during its meeting, empanelling six committees to investigate the complaints further.
Of the 30 petitions, 22 were dismissed for lack of merit, while two remained under judicial consideration.
Additionally, the NJC has appointed a committee to investigate complaints against Hon. Justice O. A. Ojo, the Chief Judge of Osun State.
Furthermore, the Council issued a caution to Hon. Justice I. A. Jamil of Kogi State for his handling of sensitive matters, urging greater circumspection in future cases.
The NJC, in its resolution, reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the integrity of the judiciary and ensuring that judicial officers adhere strictly to the principles of justice and accountability.
