BREAKING: NJC Cracks Down on Judicial Misconduct, Retires Nine Imo Judges Compulsorily for Age Falsification

By Ed Malik, A | ed@ddnewsonline.com | posted 30th June, 2025

In a landmark move that signals a zero-tolerance stance on judicial malpractice, the National Judicial Council (NJC) has ordered the compulsory retirement of nine judges in Imo State for falsifying their dates of birth—an attempt to unlawfully extend their tenure on the bench.

The unprecedented decision emerged from the Council’s 109th plenary session, presided over by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun. It marks a decisive effort by the NJC to restore public confidence in the judiciary and enforce ethical accountability.

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The affected Imo State Judges penciled for retirement over age falsification cuts across the High Court and Customary court. From the high court are Justices M.E. Nwagboso, B.C. Iheka, K.A. Leaweanya, Okereke Chinyere Ngozi and Innocent Chidi Ibeawuchi. While from the Customary court are Justices Tennyson Nze, Ofoha Uchenna, Everyman Eleanya and Rosemond Ibe

In a separate but related disciplinary action, the Council also retired Justice T. N. Nzeukwu for unlawfully presenting himself as the Acting Chief Judge of Imo State—a constitutional violation that bypassed the established protocol. The NJC reaffirmed its binding directive that Governor Hope Uzodinma must swear in the most senior judge as Acting Chief Judge—a mandate yet to be obeyed.

Meanwhile, nine other judges facing minor discrepancies were exonerated after successfully defending themselves, underscoring the Council’s commitment to procedural fairness.

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The action—widely regarded as the most sweeping judicial purge in recent NJC history—comes amid a broader crisis within the Imo State judiciary, which has been plagued by controversies over succession and executive interference.

Analysts say the Council’s crackdown is more than a disciplinary gesture; it is a strategic reassertion of constitutional order. “This is a subtle yet firm declaration that the judiciary will no longer be a pawn in political games,” said one senior legal analyst.

Beyond Imo State, the NJC reportedly took additional disciplinary and administrative measures affecting judicial officers in other jurisdictions, though details remain pending.

Justice Isaac Essien of the National Industrial Court was barred from elevation or promotion for three years following verified misconduct.

While Mainasara Umar was appointed as the new Chairman of the Code of Conduct Tribunal, a pivotal anti-corruption body, other 21 new judicial appointments were approved across various states to reinforce the judiciary’s strength and restore credibility.

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This new era of accountability, ushered in under Justice Kekere-Ekun’s leadership, represents a litmus test for the judiciary’s internal resolve to cleanse itself. Whether the Imo State Government ultimately complies with the NJC’s directive may determine if justice remains blind—or simply blindfolded by political interests.