The National Judicial Council (NJC) has recommended the appointment of 12 new Justices for the Court of Appeal in a strategic effort to strengthen the judiciary and fill vacancies caused by retirements and elevations. The decision was reached during the council's 111th meeting held on May 13, chaired by Kudirat Kekere-Ekun.
List of Recommended Nominees
According to a statement issued after the meeting, the recommended nominees include Yakubu Abdulhameed Mohammed, Abodunde Monisoala Oluwatoyin, Ajuwa Raphael, Abua Elias Ojije, Ijohor Mbalamen Jennifer, Shuaibu Sabiu Bala, Omotosho James Kolawole, Nwite Emeka, Buba Dauda Njane, Kado Sanusi, Ademola Enikuomehin, and Dadom Julcit Veronica.
Additionally, the council recommended Christine Clement Ende for appointment as a judge of the Benue State High Court, along with Ibrahim Abdullahi Yakubu and Bala Salisu Daura as Kadis of the Katsina State Sharia Court of Appeal.
New Policy on Retired Public Servants
The NJC noted that the consideration of Yakubu and Daura was initially deferred following a petition challenging their eligibility on the grounds of prior retirement from public service. However, the council clarified that the constitution does not bar retired public servants from judicial appointments.
In a significant policy shift, the NJC announced that retired public servants seeking judicial appointments must now have at least 10 years remaining before the mandatory retirement age. The new rules also require candidates to disclose criminal convictions, financial status, employment history, and any existing employment obligations.
Extension of Acting Chief Judge Appointment
The council extended the appointment of Ijeoma Agugua as Acting Chief Judge of Imo State for an additional three months.
Disciplinary Actions and Reinstatements
On disciplinary matters, the NJC dismissed appeals filed by eight judges of the Imo State judiciary who had been compulsorily retired over allegations of age falsification. However, the council reinstated T.I. Nze of the Imo Customary Court of Appeal after reviewing fresh evidence submitted to its committee.
The NJC had earlier found that some judges altered their dates of birth in official records to unlawfully extend their service years. Another judge was accused of making himself available to be sworn in as Acting Chief Judge despite not being next in line under constitutional provisions.
Suspensions for Misconduct
Meanwhile, the NJC suspended Ibrahim Shekarau of the Nasarawa State High Court and Edward Okpe of the FCT High Court for one year without pay over allegations of judicial misconduct.
