The National Judicial Council (NJC) has launched an investigation into 18 Imo State judges accused of falsifying their birth records.
Kemi Ogedengbe, NJC Deputy Director of Information, confirmed the probe during a press briefing on Thursday. “We are treating these allegations with the seriousness they deserve,” she said. “No decision will be taken until all inquiries are complete.”
The NJC said the probe followed a formal petition by the Civil Society Engagement Platform (CSEP), which called the situation a “serious breach of judicial integrity.”
According to the petition, several judges allegedly manipulated their birth dates to either delay retirement or qualify for appointments. The petition was addressed to NJC Chairman and Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun.
CSEP’s Director of Investigation, Comrade Ndubuisi Onyemaechi, said the petition includes evidence from various official sources. “We attached Law School forms, DSS reports, and nominal rolls,” Onyemaechi stated. “These documents clearly show inconsistencies.”
One of the judges under scrutiny, Justice I.O. Agugua, reportedly has two birth dates on file: May 10, 1959, and May 10, 1960. Records list Justice C.A. Ononeze-Madu with two birth dates: July 7, 1963, and July 7, 1965. Justice M.E. Nwagbaoso reportedly submitted documents showing both August 20, 1952, and August 20, 1962, as birth dates.
The NJC confirmed that all 18 judges named in the petition are under investigation. “We will review all the facts and reconvene soon to take appropriate action,” said Ogedengbe.
Legal experts say the outcome of the investigation could impact judicial credibility in Imo and beyond. “This issue speaks to the heart of trust in our judges,” one lawyer said.
The NJC plays a critical role in overseeing judges and maintaining ethical standards across Nigeria’s judiciary.
