The National Judicial Council (NJC) has summoned 18 judges from the Imo State judiciary following allegations of age falsification and misconduct, as revealed in a petition filed by the Civil Society Engagement Platform (CSEP). The petition, addressed to the NJC Chairman and Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), accused the judges of manipulating their ages to secure judicial appointments, thereby gaining undue advantage. The case follows a similar scandal that led to the dismissal of a former Chief Judge of Imo State. The Imo State Government’s appointment of an acting Chief Judge had already sparked controversy, with the NJC rejecting Governor Hope Uzodinma’s nominee, citing constitutional violations. The governor had bypassed the three most senior judges, arguing that they were unfit for the position due to alleged infractions. Meanwhile, human rights lawyer Christopher Chidera has called for sanctions against appeal court judges over alleged abuse of ex parte orders. He condemned the reckless issuance of such orders as a tool for political oppression and manipulation, urging the judiciary to restore public confidence in the legal system. The NJC’s proceedings will determine the fate of the accused judges and the broader implications for judicial integrity in Nigeria.
AT Reporter
