NJC Issues Warning Letters to Three Judges, Bars Them from Elevation

The National Judicial Council (NJC), chaired by Chief Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, has issued warning letters to three judges and barred them from elevation.

The decisions were made during the NJC’s 105th meeting on May 15 and 16, 2024.

Justice Inyang Ekwo of the Federal High Court has been cautioned for abusing his discretionary power by granting an ex parte order in the case of Juliet Ebere Nwadi Gbaka & 2 Ors v. Seplat Energy Plc & 12 Ors. As a result, Justice Ekwo is barred from elevation to a higher bench for two years.

Justice GB Brikins-Okolosi of the Delta State High Court was warned for failing to deliver a judgment within the stipulated period in the case of Joseph Anene Okafor Vs Skye Bank. Justice Brikins-Okolosi will not be elevated for three years.

Justice Amina Shehu of the Yobe State High Court was cautioned for issuing a writ of possession conferring title on the defendant without a subsisting judgment to support it.

The NJC also reviewed 35 petitions against judges and found eight meritorious, warranting further investigation. Petitions against several judges, including Justices A. M. Liman, A. A. Okeke, and D. E. Osiagor, were dismissed due to lack of merit.

Additionally, the NJC considered the appointment of 86 judicial officers to various courts, including the Court of Appeal, High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Sharia Courts of Appeal, and Customary Courts of Appeal across Nigeria. The recommended candidates will be sworn in following approval by the President and state governors.

The council also acknowledged the retirements of three judicial officers, including Chief Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, and noted the deaths of three judges.