Connect with us

news

Breaking: NJC recommends dismissal of two judges

Published

on

NJC Nigeria

…Directs one to refund two years’ pay

…Dismisses petitions against Justice Kafarati, others

The National Judicial Council (NJC) has recommended the dismal of two judges to President Muhammadu Buhari having been found guilty of misconduct.

The judges are Justices Rita N. Ofili-Ajumogobia (of the Federal High Court) and James T. Agbadu-Fishim (of the National Industrial Court of Nigeria).

This is the first time, in recent time that the NJC would recommend the dismissal of an erring judge.

Past recommendations had always been for compulsory retirement.

Rising from its 87th meeting held on Wednesday, the NJC also directed Justice Joshua E. Ikede of the Delta State High Court to refund what he earned as salary and other entitlements since October 2016.

The NJC said it found that Justice Ikede altered his age. It rejected the retirement letter sent to it on October 1 this year by the judge.

NJC’s Director, Information, Soji Oye said in a statement Thursday that the investigation of Justices Ofili-Ajumogobia and Agbadu-Fishim was based on petitions written against them by the Acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ibrahim Magu.

The NJC said the petitioner alleged that Justice Ofili-Ajumogobia is a Director/Chief Executive Officer and sole signatory to Nigel and Colive Company contrary to the Code of Conduct for Judicial Officers of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

It said there was also allegation that several personalities, individuals, government officials and business partners lodged funds into various accounts belonging to the judge.

The NJC said it was also alleged that there was an ex-parte communication between the judge and Mr. Godwin Oblah, SAN, during the pendency of his matter before the judge.

The council said it could not consider other allegations in the petition because they are already before a court where the judge is standing trial. It left those matters for the trial to take its legal course.

Oye said Justice Agbadu-Fishim  “was also recommended for removal by dismissal from office sequel to the findings of the council on the allegations contained in another petition by the Acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) alleging that the Hon. Judge received various sums of money from litigants and lawyers that had cases before him, and some influential Nigerians, under the false pretence that he was bereaved or that there was delay in the payment of his salary.

“This is contrary to the Code of Conduct for Judicial Officers of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“In the interim, the Council, in exercise of its disciplinary powers under paragraph 21 (d) of the Third Schedule of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, as amended, has suspended Hon. Mr. Justices R. N. Ofili-Ajumogobia and James T. Agbadu-Fishim with immediate effect pending their removal from office by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

On Justice Ikede, Oye said: “Council rejected the letter of voluntary retirement, purported to be with effect from the 1st of October 2018, submitted to it by Hon. Mr. Justice Joshua E. Ikede of the Delta State High Court.

“This followed the findings on an allegation of falsification of age contained in a petition written by Zik Gbemre, National Co-ordinator of Niger Delta Peace Coalition. Council found that the Hon. Judge ought to have retired since 1st October 2016.

“Consequently, it backdated his retirement to 2016 and recommended to the Government of Delta State to deduct from the retirement benefits of the judge, all salaries received by him from October, 2016 till date and remit it to NJC which pays salaries of all Judicial Officers in the federation.

“Council also decided to issue a letter of advice to Hon. Mr. Justice K. C. Nwakpa of High Court of Abia State to guard against unwarranted utterances in matters before him.

“This was as a result of a complaint to the council by one Princewill Ukegbu.

“Council considered the reports of various Investigation Committees and dismissed the petitions written against Hon. Mr. Justice Yusuf Halilu of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory; Hon. Mr. Justice E. O. Osinuga of the High Court of Ogun State, and Hon. Mr. Justice E. O. Ononeze-Madu of the High Court of Imo State.

“The petition by Wema Bank against Hon. Mr. Justice Yusuf Halilu of the FCT High Court was dismissed because the allegation of misconduct was not established.

“The judge’s handling of the related matter did not amount to the alleged misconduct.

“The petition on allegation of inducement, bias and alteration of ruling written by David Olawepo Efunwape, Esq. against Hon. Mr. Justice E. O. Osinuga of High Court, Ogun State was found to be false.

“Council, therefore, decided to report David Olawepo Efunwape, Esq., to the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC) for appropriate sanctions for making false allegations against a judge.

“The petition written by Hon. Eugene Okechukwu Dibiagwu against Hon. Mr. Justice E. O. Ononeze Madu was dismissed by the council for lack of merit. “Council also decided to warn the petitioner and asked him to apologise to the Hon. Judge for the false allegation of inducement.

“New petitions written against twenty-six (26) judicial officers from the Federal and State High Courts were considered by council, after which it resolved to empanel four (4) Committees to investigate.

“The remaining petitions were summarily dismissed for obvious and manifest lack of merit, being subjudice, concerning administrative matters, or that such petitions were matters for appeal.

“The dismissed petitions were against Hon. Mr. Justice J. O. Bada, Presiding Justice, Court of Appeal, Benin Division, Hon. Mr. Justice Abdul-Kafarati, Chief Judge, Federal High Court and Hon. Mr. Justices I. N. Buba, H. R. Shagari, R. M. Aikawa, O. E. Abang (all of the Federal High Court) and  Hon. Mr. Justice Marshal Umukoro, Chief Judge, Delta State.

“Others are  Hon. Mr. Justice E. G. Timi also of the Delta State High Court; Hon. Mr. Justice S. U. Dikko, Chief Judge, Nasarawa State; Hon. Mr. Justice P. N. C. Umeadi, Chief Judge, Anambra State, Hon. Mr. Justices A. O. Opesanwo and A. J. Coker (both of Lagos State High Court); Hon. Mr. Justice C. I. Gabriel Nwankwo, President, Customary Court of Appeal, River State, Hon. Mr. Justices C. A. Okirie and G. O. Omeji both of River State High Court, Hon. Mr. Justice Iniabasi Udobong of High Court, Akwa-Ibom State, Hon. Mr. Justice S. O. Falola of High Court, Osun State, Hon. Grand Kadi, Sokoto State, Hon. Mr. Justice I. B. Ahmed of Katsina State High Court and Hon. Mr. Justice Patricia Mahmoud formerly of the Kano State High Court before her elevation to the Court of Appeal.”

Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

news

Dangote Refinery to Begin Nationwide Distribution of PMS, Diesel, for smooth logistics to marketers

Published

on

 

The Dangote Petroleum Refinery has announced that it will begin distribution of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and diesel nationwide.

The statement added that the Refinery has invested in the procurement of 4,000 brand-new Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered tankers to ensure smooth take-off of the scheme, which will continue over an extended timeframe

The statement said, “To ensure the smooth takeoff of the free logistics for marketers and petrol dealers buying from Dangote, the statement further disclosed that the refinery has procured 4,000 brand-new Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered tankers.

“This phase of the programme will continue over an extended timeframe. The refinery is also investing in Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) stations, commonly referred to as daughter booster stations, supported by a fleet of over 100 CNG tankers across the country to ensure seamless product distribution.

This strategic programme is part of our broader commitment to eliminating logistics costs, enhancing energy efficiency, promoting sustainability and supporting Nigeria’s economic development. It affirms our dedication to improving the availability and affordability of fuel, in support of broader efforts to strengthen the economy and improve the well-being of all Nigerians.

“Under this initiative, all petrol stations purchasing PMS and diesel from the Dangote Petroleum Refinery will benefit from this enhanced logistics support. Key sectors such as manufacturing, telecommunications, and others will also gain from this transformative initiative, as reduced fuel costs will contribute to lower production costs, reduced inflation, and foster economic growth. Players in these key sectors and others can purchase directly from the Dangote Petroleum Refinery.

The Dangote Petroleum Refinery has announced that it will begin distribution of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and diesel nationwide.

In a statement on Sunday, the company said effective from 15th of August 2025, it will begin the distribution of the products to marketers, petrol dealers, manufacturers, telecoms firms, aviation, and other large users across the country, with free logistics to boost distribution network.

The move, according to the company, was a significant national initiative aimed at transforming Nigeria’s fuel distribution landscape.

The statement added that the Refinery has invested in the procurement of 4,000 brand-new Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered tankers to ensure smooth take-off of the scheme, which will continue over an extended timeframe.

“This phase of the programme will continue over an extended timeframe. The refinery is also investing in Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) stations, commonly referred to as daughter booster stations, supported by a fleet of over 100 CNG tankers across the country to ensure seamless product distribution.

“This strategic programme is part of our broader commitment to eliminating logistics costs, enhancing energy efficiency, promoting sustainability and supporting Nigeria’s economic development. It affirms our dedication to improving the availability and affordability of fuel, in support of broader efforts to strengthen the economy and improve the well-being of all Nigerians.

“Under this initiative, all petrol stations purchasing PMS and diesel from the Dangote Petroleum Refinery will benefit from this enhanced logistics support. Key sectors such as manufacturing, telecommunications, and others will also gain from this transformative initiative, as reduced fuel costs will contribute to lower production costs, reduced inflation, and foster economic growth. Players in these key sectors and others can purchase directly from the Dangote Petroleum Refinery.”

The statement added that the refinery will offer a credit facility to those purchasing a minimum of 500,000 litres, which would allow them to obtain an additional 500,000 litres on credit for two weeks, under bank guarantee.

It described the effort as a milestone in its vision to revolutionise the Nigeria’s energy sector.

“This pioneering effort marks a major milestone in our vision to revolutionise Nigeria’s energy sector. Dangote Refinery is dedicated to ensuring that no place is left behind. Our goal is to provide equitable access to affordable fuel for all Nigerians, regardless of location, making energy more accessible and sustainable for everyone, wherever they may b

 

Continue Reading

news

NMA FCT Issues Indefinite Strike Threat Over Alleged Ethnic Victimisation and Unjust Dismissal of Three Abuja Doctors

Published

on

Tensions are rising at the National Hospital Abuja (NHA) as the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) FCT Branch threatens an indefinite strike following the controversial dismissal of three medical doctors. According to insider sources, the crisis is unfolding under the leadership of Dr. Mahmud Raji, the Chief Medical Director (CMD), who is alleged to be using his office to intimidate these doctors—believed to have been targeted because of their opinions. This disturbing allegation has intensified outrage within the medical community, raising serious concerns about fairness, professionalism, and ethnic bias within the healthcare system.

In what is fast becoming a major flashpoint in Nigeria’s embattled healthcare sector, the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) FCT Branch has issued a 14-day strike ultimatum to the management of National Hospital Abuja over the controversial and unexplained disengagement of three medical doctors who have served the hospital diligently for years.

In a strongly worded notice dated June 11, 2025, following its Ordinary General Meeting (OGM) held at the VIP Hall of the Federal Medical Centre Abuja, the NMA FCT leadership formally communicated its dissatisfaction with the National Hospital’s refusal to reinstate its disengaged members. The affected doctors, who completed their residency training in 2020, were appointed as locum consultants in March 2022 after working as post-Part II fellows. After three years of dedicated service, they were abruptly dismissed without any stated reason—unlike their contemporaries who remain in service. The hospital only stated that “their services were no longer needed” and advised them to reapply when vacancies arise.

The association described the move as selective victimisation and scapegoating, pointing out that 30 doctors were employed under similar terms, yet only three were let go. Multiple advocacy efforts—including visits from the NMA President, FCT Chairman, and a committee of senior, reputable medical professionals—have all been ignored by the hospital’s leadership.

The NMA expressed deep frustration that despite its peaceful engagement efforts, the hospital remained unmoved, even in the face of the ongoing “japa” wave—mass migration of medical professionals abroad—leaving Nigeria’s healthcare system dangerously understaffed.

“This disengagement worsens an already fragile system, adding to the mental and economic burdens of doctors, increasing anxiety and threatening family stability,” the NMA noted in its communiqué.

The association has now declared that if the doctors are not reinstated, members at National Hospital Abuja will embark on a total and indefinite strike from June 30, 2025, following a two-week warning strike from June 15–29. If after seven days of this action no resolution is achieved, the entire NMA FCT branch will join the strike in solidarity.

Investigations within the hospital revealed that the affected doctors had no records of disciplinary actions or professional misconduct. Their Heads of Department (HODs) had recommended them for continued service, and it was confirmed that they were already on the IPPIS scale, meaning they posed no additional financial burden to the hospital.

The outrage is further fueled by the irony that, while NMA is pushing for an increase in doctors’ retirement age to 70 due to acute personnel shortages, National Hospital is disengaging young, skilled doctors who chose to remain in Nigeria instead of seeking better opportunities abroad. “Are we saying NHA has enough specialists to let go of such committed professionals?” the association questioned.

Doctors familiar with the affected doctors shared personal testimonies: “I worked with Dr. Fernandez during the COVID-19 pandemic. We carried out countless caesarean sections when fear was palpable. Only a doctor with heart would do that. Is this how the system rewards bravery?”

Emotionally charged reactions have poured in from across the country. A senior doctor lamented: “It’s difficult to believe that doctors would ignore juicy offers abroad to make the sacrifice of practising in Nigeria, only to be treated like trash for speaking up on poor welfare. How do you keep a doctor as locum for 3 years, earning barely ₦400,000, and expect them to live a dignified life? This is the reward for years of service?”

He added that the refusal of the hospital to heed the advice of the NMA President and respected elders “is deeply worrisome” and raises concerns of possible hidden motives.

The broader concern is that this crisis could demoralize others in the system. “We are already overwhelmed, underpaid, and understaffed, yet our sacrifices are ignored,” the doctor continued. “Meanwhile, national honours are reserved for political loyalists, while real heroes are discarded.”

He appealed to the NMA and well-meaning members to establish a financial support plan for the affected doctors, who have now been unpaid for three months, pushing them to the brink emotionally and economically.

In his final remarks, he called for unity: “All hands must be on deck to preserve the Hippocratic brotherhood we swore to uphold. A brother should not snuff the life out of another. This is not the future we envisaged. We must fight to leave a better one for the next generation.”

As the clock ticks toward June 30, the healthcare sector in the FCT braces for what may become one of the most consequential strikes in recent years—one born not just from policy failure, but from a cry for justice, equity, and professional dignity.

The NMA is also using this opportunity to call on the Minister of Health, Dr. Muhammad Ali Pate, to urgently intervene before the situation escalates further. At a time when the country is grappling with critical challenges in the healthcare sector—and the President is actively working to reverse the “japa” trend and restore stability through the Renewed Hope Agenda—it would be deeply unfortunate for such avoidable crises to undermine those efforts. Supporting doctors who have chosen to remain in Nigeria is essential to rebuilding trust and encouraging others, both at home and abroad, to return and contribute to the nation’s healthcare revival.

Continue Reading

news

BREAKING: Tinubu honours Abiola, Kudirat, Soyinka, Onanuga others in State of the Nation address

Published

on

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has conferred national honours on more than 80 Nigerians—both living and deceased—during his inaugural State of the Nation address in honour of this year’s Democracy Day.

The President, who reeled the names out with other messages while addressing a joint session of the National Assembly to mark 26 years of uninterrupted democratic rule in Nigeria on Thursday, also announced the granting of full pardon to the heroes of the Ogoni Struggle, identified as the Ogoni nine.

The president used the solemn occasion to commemorate key figures in the June 12 pro-democracy movement, notably Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, his late wife Alhaja Kudirat Abiola, and environmental rights activist Ken Saro-Wiwa.

Alhaja Kudirat Abiola was posthumously awarded the Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) for her role in resisting military rule, a struggle that ultimately led to her assassination. Tinubu described her as the “heroine of the June 12 struggle.”

Also honoured was the late Major General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua, who received the Grand Commander of the Federal Republic (GCFR), the highest national honour typically reserved for heads of state.

He was recognised for mobilising political resistance to military rule and advancing democratic reforms.

Other posthumous recipients included key figures in Nigeria’s pro-democracy movement: Professor Humphrey Nwosu (CON), who chaired the National Electoral Commission during the 1993 elections; Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu (CON); Pa Alfred Rewane (CFR); Bagauda Kaltho (OON); Chima Ubani (OON); Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti (CON); Chief Alao Aka-Bashorun (CON); and Chief Frank Kokori (CON), among others.

The list extended to civil rights advocates, journalists, politicians, and unionists who lost their lives in the pursuit of justice and democracy.

Honourees included Emma Ezeazu, Bamidele Aturu, Fredrick Fasehun, Professor Festus Iyayi, Dr. John Yima Sen, Alhaja Gambo Sawaba, Dr. Edwin Madunagu, Dr. Alex Ibru, Chief Bola Ige, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, Senator Ayo Fasanmi, Senator Polycarp Nwite, and Dr. Nurudeen Olowopopo.

In a move described as symbolic of national reconciliation, Tinubu posthumously recognised Ken Saro-Wiwa and his fellow environmental activists known as the Ogoni Nine, who were executed in 1995 under the regime of General Sani Abacha.

Saro-Wiwa was awarded the Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON), while Saturday Dobee, Nordu Eawo, Daniel Gbooko, Paul Levera, Felix Nuate, Baribor Bera, Barinem Kiobel, and John Kpuine were each awarded the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON).

The President further announced that he would invoke his constitutional powers to grant a full state pardon to the Ogoni Nine and others, whose names will be released following consultations with the National Council of State.

Living icons of democratic activism and intellectual freedom were also celebrated. Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka was awarded the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON), while renowned journalism scholar Professor Olatunji Dare received the Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON).

Related NewsProminent journalists and media pioneers were similarly honoured: Kunle Ajibade (OON), Nosa Igiebor (OON), Dapo Olorunyomi (OON), Bayo Onanuga (CON), Ayo Obe (OON), Dare Babarinsa (CON), and Seye Kehinde (OON).

Among the human rights lawyers and activists honoured were Femi Falana, SAN (CON), Barrister Felix Morka (CON), Barrister Ledum Mitee (CON), and Professor Shafideen Amuwo (CON).

Other notable recipients included Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah (CON), Senator Shehu Sani (CON), Governor Uba Sani (CON), Senator Tokunbo Afikuyomi (CON), Honourable Labaran Maku (OON), Dr. Tunji Alausa (CON), Mr. Nick Dazang (OON), Hon. Abdul Oroh (OON), Barrister Luke Aghanenu (OON), Odia Ofeimun (CON), Hon. Olawale Osun (CON), Dr. Amos Akingba (CON), and Professor Segun Gbadegesin (CON).

Further commendations went to Professor Julius Ihonvbere, Professor Bayo Williams, Senator Abu Ibrahim, Professor Bolaji Akinyemi, Dr. Kayode Shonoiki, and Senator Ameh Ebute, who were also recognised with honours ranging from Commander to Grand Commander of the Federal Republic.

Veteran journalist and Vanguard Newspapers founder Uncle Sam Amuka Pemu was honoured with a Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON), a day before his 90th birthday.

President Tinubu also formally decorated the current presiding officers of the National Assembly, who had previously received national honours:

Senate President Godswill Obot Akpabio (GCON)

Speaker of the House of RepresentativesTajudeen Abbas (GCON)

Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin (CFR)

Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu (CFR)

“The honours were not just symbolic, but a national acknowledgment of those who defended truth, fought repression, and expanded Nigeria’s democratic space”, Tinubu said.

He called on Nigerians, particularly political leaders, to uphold the values of the June 12 movement in their actions and policies.

“We must rededicate ourselves to the ideals of June 12: freedom, transparent and accountable government, social justice, active citizen participation, and a just society where no one is oppressed”, he said.

President Tinubu concluded his address with a call for national reflection and progress, urging the country to move beyond symbolic recognition and build a future anchored on the sacrifices of past heroes.

 

Continue Reading

Trending

Copyright © 2025 Newsthumb Magazine | All rights reserved