The National Judicial Council (NJC) has recommended the compulsory retirement of 10 judges in Imo State after uncovering evidence of age falsification and other unethical practices. The decision, reached at the NJC’s 109th meeting chaired by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, marks one of the most significant disciplinary actions in the Nigerian judiciary in recent years.
According to the NJC, nine of the judges altered their official dates of birth to illegally extend their tenure on the bench, while the tenth, Justice T. N. Nzeukwu, was found guilty of violating judicial hierarchy by being sworn in as Acting Chief Judge despite being fourth in line.
Names of Judges Recommended for Sack
The judges recommended for compulsory retirement include:
- High Court Judges:
- Justice M. E. Nwagboso
- Justice B. C. Iheka
- Justice K. A. Leaweanya
- Justice Okereke Chinyere Ngozi
- Justice Innocent Chidi Ibeawuchi
- Customary Court of Appeal Judges:
- Justice Tennyson Nze
- Justice Ofoha Uchenna
- Justice Everyman Eleanya
- Justice Rosemond Ibe
- High Court Judge:
- Justice T. N. Nzeukwu (for breaching judicial hierarchy)
The Council’s investigation committee reviewed allegations against eighteen Imo judges and found that nine had indeed falsified their records, while Justice Nzeukwu acted contrary to constitutional provisions.
Further Disciplinary Actions and Appointments
The NJC also:
- Cautioned the Chief Judge of Edo State, Justice Daniel Okungbowa, for abuse of judicial discretion.
- Barred Justice Isaac J. Essien of the National Industrial Court from promotion for three years due to misconduct.
- Recommended Mainasara Ibrahim Kogo Umar to President Bola Tinubu for appointment as Chairman of the Code of Conduct Tribunal.
- Absolved Benue State Chief Judge Justice M. A. Ikpambese of wrongdoing after investigation.
The Council also insisted that Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State must appoint the most senior judge as acting Chief Judge, in line with constitutional requirements.
Integrity and Accountability in Focus
The NJC’s statement emphasized the importance of integrity in the judiciary, noting that the Council will not tolerate actions that undermine public trust in the legal system.
“Nine of the affected judges of the Imo State Judiciary were found to have altered their dates of birth in their official records in order to confer on themselves the undue advantage of staying longer in service,” the NJC said.
The Council also reviewed petitions and complaints against judges from other states, dismissing some for lack of merit and issuing warnings to others for various violations.
Conclusion
The NJC’s sweeping disciplinary actions send a strong message about the importance of honesty and integrity in Nigeria’s judiciary. By recommending the compulsory retirement of 10 judges in Imo State and taking action against others for misconduct, the Council aims to restore public confidence in the justice system and ensure that only those who uphold the highest ethical standards remain on the bench. The NJC’s commitment to transparency and accountability is a vital step toward strengthening the rule of law in Nigeria.
