Wike’s Wife Among High Court Judges Recommended for Elevation Amid Protests

In the midst of protests from various civil society organizations and individuals, Justice Nyesom-Wike Eberechi Suzzette, wife of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has been recommended for elevation to the Court of Appeal by the National Judicial Council (NJC).

During a press briefing on Friday, Dr. Nureni Aderemi Adeniran, Executive Chairman of Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board (OYOSUBEB), revealed this significant development. The NJC’s recommendations also include the daughter-in-law of the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Ariwoola Oluwakemi Victoria, for appointment as a Judge of the High Court, Federal Capital Territory, in a meeting presided over by her father-in-law, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, who is set to retire in August this year.

Additionally, the NJC has barred Justices Inyang Edem Ekwo and G. B. Brikins-Okolosi from elevation to the Appeal Court for two and three years, respectively, due to misconduct. Justice Ekwo was sanctioned for the abuse of discretionary power in Suit No FHC/ABJ/C/626/2023, while Justice Brikins-Okolosi was warned for failing to deliver judgment within the stipulated period in a separate case.

Justice Amina Shehu of Yobe State High Court was also cautioned for issuing a Writ of Possession without a subsisting judgment.

At the NJC meeting, 35 petitions against judges were assessed, leading to the dismissal of several for lack of merit. However, 86 judicial officers were recommended for various appointments, including 22 high court judges to the Court of Appeal and numerous others across federal and state courts.

The Council also noted the retirements of three judicial officers, including the CJN, and received notifications of the deaths of three judges. The recommendations are pending approval by the President and respective state governors, with a statement from NJC Director of Information, Soji Oye, confirming the upcoming swearing-in ceremonies upon approval.