NJC Suspends Two Nigerian Judges, Queries 256 Others for Misconduct and Performance Issues

Nigeria's National Judicial Council (NJC) has taken significant disciplinary action, suspending two judicial officers for one year without pay due to misconduct. Concurrently, 256 judges have been issued queries concerning performance-related concerns as part of a broader initiative to bolster accountability and efficiency within the nation's judiciary.

The decisions were finalized during the NJC's 111th meeting, presided over by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun. Beyond disciplinary measures, the council also focused on judicial expansion, recommending the appointment of 12 new Justices to the Court of Appeal to fill existing vacancies. Furthermore, it proposed one candidate for a position as a Judge of the Benue State High Court and two candidates as Kadis for the Katsina State Sharia Court of Appeal, aiming to improve justice delivery.

In other administrative actions, the NJC extended Justice Ijeoma Agugua's appointment as Acting Chief Judge of Imo State for three months, facilitating the process for appointing a substantive chief judge. The council also reinstated Justice T. N. Nze of the Imo State Customary Court of Appeal after reviewing new evidence. However, appeals from eight Imo State Judiciary judges, who faced compulsory retirement over age falsification, were rejected due to a lack of fresh evidence justifying a reversal of the earlier disciplinary actions.

The NJC also recognized commendable judicial performance, commending nine judges for outstanding output. Two judges will receive formal commendations for delivering over 21 considered judgments, while seven others will receive letters of appreciation. The council approved the retirement of three judicial officers and paid tribute to three who passed away, acknowledging their invaluable contributions. The NJC reiterated its dedication to maintaining discipline, integrity, and professionalism, emphasizing that judicial accountability is crucial for public trust in the courts.