NJC Recommends Elevation Of 12 Justices To Court Of Appeal

These recommendations are intended to fill vacancies arising from the elevation and retirement of Judicial Officers across various levels of the Judiciary.

The National Judicial Council (NJC), has recommended the elevation of 12 Justices to the Court of Appeal.

At its 111th Meeting held on Wednesday, under the Chairmanship of the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, the Council made the recommendation to President Bola Tinubu.

A statement signed by the Deputy Director of Information of the NJC, Kemi Babalola-Ogedengbe, disclosed that those recommended for elevation are Justice Emeka Nwite, Justice James Kolawole Omotosho, Justice Yakubu Mohammed, Justice Abodunde Oluwatoyin and Justice Ajuwa Raphael.

Others are Justice Abua Ojie, Justice Ijohor Jennifer, Justice Shuaibu Bala, Justice Buba Njane, Justice Kado, Sanusi, Justice Ademola, Enikuomehin and Justice Dadom Veronica.

The Council also recommended the appointment of Christine Ende as a Judge of the High Court of Benue State and two others for appointment as Kadis of the Sharia Court of Appeal, Katsina State.

These recommendations are intended to fill vacancies arising from the elevation and retirement of Judicial Officers across various levels of the Judiciary and to strengthen the capacity of courts for effective justice delivery.

The NJC has also extended the appointment off Justice Ijeoma Agugua as Imo State Acting Chief Judge for a further period of 3 months with effect from March 26, 2026 to June 26, 2026 to allow for completion of the process for appointing a substantive Chief Judge.

The Council commended Justice Ononeze-Madu for declining to be sworn in contrary to established constitutional procedure, describing the action as a demonstration of institutional integrity and respect for the rule of law.

It reiterated the call on the Imo State Judicial Service Commission to expedite the process of appointment of a substantive Chief Judge in order to ensure stability, safeguard judicial independence, and enhance the effective administration of justice in the State.

The NJC has also reaffirmed that the Constitution of Nigeria does not prohibit retired public servants from judicial appointment.

Under the newly adopted policy:

* A retired public servant must have a minimum o f ten (10) years remaining in service before attaining the mandatory judicial retirement age;

* Prospective candidates must disclose any criminal conviction;

* Provide full employment history and reasons for leaving previous employment;

* Declare existing employment obligations; and

* Disclose financial status, including any circumstance of financial embarrassment.