Prominent human rights lawyer and former Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission, Prof. Chidi Anselm Odinkalu, has applauded the National Judicial Council (NJC) for taking decisive steps in the age falsification scandal involving judges in Imo State but cautioned that the matter reflects a deeper systemic issue within Nigeria’s judiciary.
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Reacting to the NJC’s recent announcement clearing nine of 18 judges accused of age manipulation, Odinkalu said Imo is “only an example,” stressing the need for the Council to go beyond isolated disciplinary actions and pursue structural reforms.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Odinkalu stated:
“The @njcNig has acted firmly on the allegations of age racketeering in the judiciary in Imo State but Imo State is only an example. The #NJC has a duty to act more systemically. If a man is sitting in the High Court after burying his 72-year-old younger brother, something is wrong.”
Odinkalu’s comment came on the heels of the NJC’s 109th meeting held on June 26, 2025, where it was revealed that nine judges—five from the High Court and four from the Customary Court of Appeal—were cleared of age falsification after a detailed review of their records. The NJC affirmed their eligibility to remain on the bench.
However, the Council also recommended the compulsory retirement of nine other judges found guilty of deliberately altering their birth records to unlawfully extend their time in office. An additional judge was retired for assuming the role of Acting Chief Judge in violation of Section 271(4) of the Constitution.
The investigation, launched in response to petitions filed by the Civil Society Engagement Platform (CSEP), was conducted by a panel chaired by Justice A.D. Yahaya of the Court of Appeal. The NJC’s decision followed scrutiny of affidavits, Call-to-Bar records, and other official documents.
The Council has also directed Governor Hope Uzodinma to appoint the most senior judicial officer in the state as Acting Chief Judge, in line with constitutional requirements.
Odinkalu’s warning underscores widespread concerns that age falsification and other forms of misconduct may be more prevalent across the Nigerian judiciary than is currently known. He urged the NJC to conduct more comprehensive audits across all states to restore public trust.
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