The National Judicial Council has launched a probe into 18 judges in the Imo State judiciary over allegations of age falsification, in a development raising fresh concerns about integrity and transparency within Nigeria’s judicial system.
The NJC, in a statement on Thursday by its Deputy Director of Information, Kemi Ogedengbe, confirmed that the allegations were being treated with utmost seriousness and were currently under review.
“Allegations of this nature require detailed investigation before any action can be taken,” Ogedengbe stated.
“The NJC is investigating the allegations and may take a decision by the end of the month. For now, we cannot act without completing our inquiries. The council will convene and make decisions on the matter.”
The investigation follows a petition submitted by a civil society group, Civil Society Engagement Platform, which described the matter as an “unprecedented breach of judicial integrity.”
The group alleged that the judges deliberately manipulated their birth records to either prolong their tenure or gain appointments within the judiciary.
In a letter addressed to the NJC Chairman and Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, the platform cited discrepancies in the judges’ official documents, including Law School registration forms, Department of State Services reports, and Nominal Rolls.
The petition, signed by CSEP’s Director of Investigation, Comrade Ndubuisi Onyemaechi, included what it described as compelling documentary evidence marked as Exhibits 001 to 018.
Among those named in the petition is Justice I. O. Agugua, who reportedly has two different birth dates—May 10, 1959, and May 10, 1960—and is also facing separate allegations of misconduct.
Justice C. A. Ononeze-Madu is alleged to have birth records stating both July 7, 1963, and July 7, 1965, while Justice M. E. Nwagbaoso is accused of presenting conflicting dates of birth—August 20, 1952, and August 20, 1962.
The remaining 15 judges also reportedly have varying inconsistencies in their personal data, a revelation that has intensified public scrutiny of the judiciary’s accountability mechanisms.
The NJC, which is constitutionally empowered to discipline judicial officers, is expected to reconvene soon to deliberate on the findings of its inquiry and take appropriate disciplinary actions where necessary.
The unfolding development comes amid mounting calls for institutional reforms to restore public trust in the judiciary and reinforce ethical standards across all arms of government.
Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
