Justice Eberechi Nyesom Wike of the Rivers State Family Court has been appointed to the prestigious Court of Appeal of Nigeria, along with 21 other judges, following a rigorous selection process that vetted 89 nominees.
The confirmation of Justice Wike’s promotion, along with her colleagues, comes after thorough scrutiny and evaluation of their qualifications and experience, signifying a major milestone in their legal careers.
The announcement of the appointments was made by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Olukayode Ariwoola, who officially approved the promotions on April 2, 2024. The list of appointed judges has been forwarded to President Tinubu for final appointment.
Justice Eberechi Nyesom Wike, renowned for her dedication and commitment to upholding justice and fairness, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her new role. As the wife of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, her appointment adds to the legacy of legal excellence associated with the Wike family.
Among the newly appointed justices are notable figures such as Justices Polycarp Tema Kwahar, Ruqayat Ayoola, Eneche Eleojo, Asmara Akanbi Yusuf, Abdullahi Muhammad Liman, and Abdu Dogo, representing the North-Central region.
From the North-East region, Justice Fadahu Umaru, hailing from Borno State, has been appointed to the Court of Appeal.
The North-West region sees the appointment of Justices Ishaq Mohammed Sani, Zainab Bage Abubakar, and Abdulaziz M. Ankara, adding to the diversity and representation within the judiciary.
In the South-East region, justices Nnamdi Okwy Dimga Victoria, Toochukwu Nwoye, Henry Aja-Onu Njoku, Donatus Uwaezuoke Okorowo, and Ngozika N Okaisabor have been selected for elevation, reflecting the commitment to equitable distribution of judicial appointments across geopolitical zones.
The South-South region boasts the promotion of justices Ntong Festus Ntong, Nehizena Idemudia Afolabi, and Eberechi Suzette Wike, further enhancing the judicial landscape in the region.
From the South-West region, justices Lateef Babajide Lawal-Akapo, Abiodun Azeem Akinyemi, Oyewumi Oyejoju Oyebiola, and Bayo Ademola Taiwo have been recommended for appointment to the Court of Appeal, showcasing the wealth of legal talent present in the region.
The elevation of Justice Eberechi Nyesom Wike and her colleagues underscores the judiciary’s commitment to excellence, integrity, and the delivery of justice. Their appointments serve as a testament to their exemplary legal careers and dedication to upholding the rule of law.
As they assume their new roles on the Court of Appeal, Justice Wike and her fellow appointees are poised to contribute to the advancement of jurisprudence and the administration of justice in Nigeria. Their appointments represent a significant step forward in strengthening the nation’s judicial system and ensuring access to justice for all citizens.
