NJC Recommends 12 Judges for Court of Appeal Elevation

The Nigerian Judicial Council (NJC) has recommended 12 judges for elevation to the Court of Appeal ahead of the anticipated election cases for the 2027 general elections. This recommendation was made during the NJC's 111th meeting, presided over by Chief Justice Kudirat Olatokunbo Motomori.

The NJC's Deputy Director, Mr. Kemi Babalola Ogedengbe, stated that the council intends to fill existing vacancies in the Court of Appeal following the elevation of justices to the Supreme Court and the retirement of others.

Among the prominent judges recommended are Justice James Kolawole Omotosho and Justice Emeka Nwite, known for handling several high-profile political and criminal cases in recent years. Other recommended judges include Justice Yakubu Mohd Abodund, Justice Oluwatoyin Ajuwa, Justice Raphael Abua, Justice Oji Ijohor, Justice Jennifer Shuaib, Justice Bala Buba, Justice Njana Kado, Justice Sanusi Adeola Enikuomehin, and Justice Dandom Veronica.

The NJC emphasized that all recommended judges will undergo a rigorous screening and interview process to ensure they possess worthy character and competence. Additionally, the NJC sanctioned two judges for judicial misconduct and upheld the compulsory retirement of eight judges from Imo State High Court.