The (NJC) has commenced a sweeping investigation into several senior judicial officers, including heads of courts, in what insiders describe as a development capable of triggering significant turbulence within Nigeria’s judiciary.
Multiple sources familiar with the development said the 24-member council, chaired by the , initiated the probe following a series of petitions alleging grave misconduct against top-ranking judges.
The NJC, constitutionally empowered to appoint, discipline and recommend the removal of judicial officers, is said to be handling the matter with a high level of discretion. Those briefed on the process said the allegations are considered “serious and disturbing,” prompting the leadership of the judiciary to move swiftly to protect the integrity of the bench.
Although details of the affected judges remain closely guarded, sources indicated that the petitions border on issues such as alleged misconduct, forgery, age falsification and questionable asset declarations. If substantiated, the allegations could result in disciplinary measures ranging from suspension to compulsory retirement or recommendation for removal from office.
Officials of the council declined formal comments on the development. Media aides to the Chief Justice and information officers of the NJC were either unavailable or said they had not been briefed on the matter when contacted.
Since assuming office, Justice Kekere-Ekun has repeatedly pledged to strengthen accountability, transparency and discipline within the judiciary. Observers say the current probe signals a continuation of efforts to restore public confidence in the justice system amid recurring concerns over ethical standards in some quarters.
The unfolding investigation has already generated unease within legal circles, with practitioners describing the situation as one that could significantly reshape leadership structures in some courts, depending on the outcome.
While the NJC has in the past sanctioned judicial officers found guilty of misconduct, the scope and seniority of those reportedly under scrutiny in the present exercise make it one of the most consequential internal reviews in recent years.
The council is expected to conclude preliminary assessments before deciding on further disciplinary proceedings in line with constitutional provisions.
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