The National Judicial Council, led by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has recommended the compulsory retirement of two Heads of Court due to judicial misconduct. During its 107th meeting in November 2024, the council recommended the Chief Judge of Imo State, Justice T. E. Chukwuemeka Chikeka, and the Grand Kadi of Yobe State, Kadi Babagana Mahdi, for retirement for falsifying their ages.
It was revealed that the Grand Kadi had discrepancies in his birth dates while Justice Chikeka changed his birthdate through an affidavit. Additionally, two other judicial officers were suspended without pay for one year and placed on a “Watch-List” for two years. The council assessed 30 petitions, dismissed 22 for lacking merit, and placed two under review.
The council’s investigation found Justice Aguma of Rivers State High Court guilty of misconduct for his involvement in a case from FCT High Court. Justice Nwabunike of Anambra State High Court was found to have violated judicial conduct rules by misinterpreting legal terms and granting orders improperly. The council took action based on these findings to uphold the integrity of the judiciary.