Nigeria’s Judicial Council Appoints Five New Ekiti High Court Judges

In a significant judicial update, the National Judicial Council has approved the appointment of five new judges to the Ekiti State High Court.

The newly appointed judges are Olanike Caroline Adegoke, Julius Sunday Bamidele Bamise, Julius Ajibare, Stephen Rotimi Akinyede, and Adefunke Helen Anoma.

The appointments were confirmed during the Council’s 110th meeting, chaired by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun. The selection followed a screening process that included consideration of public feedback and interviews conducted in line with the NJC’s guidelines.

Beyond Ekiti, the Council also approved the appointment of 22 additional High Court judges across six states: Borno (6), Plateau (6), Niger (4), Delta (4), Benue (1), and Taraba (1).

In a notable elevation, the NJC recommended Justice Joseph Olubunmi Kayode Oyewole of the Court of Appeal for appointment as a Justice of the Supreme Court.

Additional judicial appointments included six Kadis for Sharia Courts of Appeal in Niger, Taraba, and Katsina States, and two judges for the Customary Court of Appeal in Delta State.

During the meeting, the NJC reviewed 39 petitions, dismissing 26 for lack of merit and recommending further investigation into seven. Two judicial officers were cautioned, and the Council reiterated its warning against improper granting of ex parte orders.

The Council also approved the voluntary retirements of two senior judicial officers and noted with regret the recent passing of two others, extending condolences to their families and the judiciary.