The National Judicial Council (NJC) has announced the suspension of three judges for one year without pay and issued warnings to eight other judicial officers following a series of misconducts that undermine judicial integrity. The decisions were made during the NJC's 112th meeting held on November 3, 2026, chaired by Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun.

The suspended judges include Justice Hannatu Mohammed Kabir from the Nasarawa State High Court, Grand Kadi Mohammed Sani Salihu from the Jigawa State Sharia Court of Appeal, and Justice Sobere Biambo from the Rivers State High Court. Each of these judges faced serious allegations, including unlawful detention of litigants and abuse of judicial powers.

Justice Kabir was found guilty of unlawfully detaining a litigant for 58 days without proper contempt proceedings. The NJC's investigation revealed that she ordered the arrest of the litigant for alleged disobedience of court orders without following due process, violating the right to a fair hearing.

Similarly, Grand Kadi Salihu was suspended for reopening a judgment from the FCT Upper Area Court without the authority to do so. His actions were deemed a violation of judicial conduct rules, as he improperly assigned the case to another judge, which amounted to an appeal against a valid judgment.

Justice Biambo faced suspension for issuing bench warrants and imposing fines on litigants without due process in a civil dispute. The NJC found that he had ordered the arrest of petitioners and imposed fines without instituting proper contempt proceedings.

In addition to the suspensions, the NJC cautioned eight other judges for various infractions. Justice Kayode Agunloye received a caution for mishandling post-judgment garnishee proceedings, while Justice Bello Kawu was warned for granting interim bail to a former Attorney-General despite an existing remand order.

Judges Danjuma A. Oyigbenu and Isa Ebini Kana were also cautioned for failing to deliver judgments within the constitutionally mandated 90 days, while Justice Mohammed Zubairu faced scrutiny for making orders after being informed of an existing appeal.

Justice C. A. Ogbuagor was cautioned for proceeding with a case despite a pending appeal, and Justice Chibuike L. Azuama was advised to take his judicial responsibilities more seriously after granting an ex parte order that affected a non-party to the suit.

The NJC's actions reflect its commitment to maintaining the integrity of the judiciary and ensuring that judicial officers adhere to the highest standards of conduct. The council also reviewed 35 petitions, dismissing 24 for lack of merit and recommending further investigations into others. The council continues to emphasize the importance of due process and accountability in the judicial system.