The National Judicial Council (NJC), under the leadership of Hon. Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, GCON, has issued warning letters to three judges and barred them from elevation to higher benches for a specified period.
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The decision was reached during the Council’s 105th Meeting held on May 15 and 16, 2024.
According to a statement released by Soji Oye, the NJC’s director of information, Hon. Justice Inyang E. Ekwo of the Federal High Court received a warning for abuse of discretionary power. Justice Ekwo was found to have wrongly granted an ex parte order in a case involving Seplat Energy Plc and 12 others. As a result, he has been barred from elevation to a higher bench for a period of two years.
Similarly, Hon. Justice G. B. Brikins-Okolosi of the Delta State High Court was issued a warning for failing to deliver judgment within the stipulated time frame in a case between Joseph Anene Okafor and Skye Bank. The parties had already filed and adopted their final written addresses. Consequently, Justice Brikins-Okolosi will not be eligible for elevation to a higher bench for a period of three years.
The NJC also cautioned Hon. Justice Amina Shehu of the Yobe State High Court for issuing a Writ of Possession conferring title on the defendant in a case where there was no subsisting judgment from any court to support the issuance of such a writ.
The Council’s actions demonstrate its commitment to upholding judicial integrity and ensuring that judges are held accountable for their conduct. By issuing warning letters and imposing temporary bans on elevation, the NJC aims to maintain public confidence in the judiciary and promote adherence to established legal procedures and timelines.
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