The National Judicial Council (NJC) has taken decisive actions to reform the judiciary, including querying 256 judges, suspending two, and recommending 12 new justices to the Court of Appeal. The announcement followed the council's 111th meeting held on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, and was detailed in a statement released late Thursday.
Petitions and Disciplinary Actions
The NJC considered 98 petitions submitted through its Preliminary Complaints Assessment Committees. According to Deputy Director of Information Kemi Babalola-Ogedengbe, a majority of these petitions were dismissed, while others led to warnings, investigations, and further disciplinary measures. Specifically, 68 petitions were thrown out for lacking merit, four judges were cautioned, and one received a final warning. Additionally, 11 petitions were recommended for further investigation, and some cases were suspended because they were already before courts.
Dismissals and Sanctions
The council also referred one Mbadiwe Ossai to the Inspector-General of Police for investigation and possible prosecution over alleged perjury. Several legal practitioners were referred to the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee for filing frivolous petitions against judicial officers. Furthermore, serial petitioner Yusuf Isa was barred from presenting further petitions to the council.
Suspension of Two Judges
The NJC confirmed the suspension of two judges for one year without pay. Hon. Justice Ibrahim D. Shekarau of the Nasarawa State High Court was sanctioned for breach of judicial conduct rules in granting an ex parte order in a disputed financial matter. The council found that the judge acted in bad faith, failed to observe due process, and demonstrated lack of professional competence. Hon. Justice Edward A. E. Okpe of the Federal Capital Territory High Court was also suspended for alleged denial of fair hearing in a matrimonial case.
Commendation for High-Performing Judges
Despite the disciplinary actions, the council commended nine judges for exemplary performance during the 2024 and 2025 legal years. Commendation letters were approved for judges who delivered more than 21 considered judgments within the review period.
Rejection of Appeals and Upholding Retirements
The NJC rejected appeals filed by eight judges from the Imo State Judiciary who challenged their compulsory retirement over alleged age falsification. The council maintained that the affected judges failed to present fresh evidence to overturn earlier decisions.
Ongoing Reforms
The council reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining judicial discipline, transparency, and accountability within the justice system. These actions are part of ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening public confidence in the judiciary. The recommendations for 12 new Court of Appeal justices have been forwarded to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approval.
