NJC Promotes Omotosho, Nwite, 10 Others to Court of Appea

The National Judicial Council has recommended the elevation of Justices James Kolawole Omotosho and Emeka Nwite, alongside 10 other judges, to the Court of Appeal of Nigeria in what observers describe as a significant reshuffle within Nigeria’s superior judiciary.

The recommendation followed a screening and shortlisting process initiated by the Federal Judicial Service Commission, which reportedly narrowed 48 nominees down to 12 candidates drawn from both Federal and State High Courts across the country.

Justice Omotosho of Ogun State gained national attention for handling high-profile terrorism-related proceedings involving Nnamdi Kanu at the Federal High Court, cases that drew intense legal and political scrutiny.

Justice Nwite of Ebonyi State has also presided over several politically sensitive matters in Abuja, including election disputes and party leadership cases involving the African Democratic Congress and other political groups.

Legal analysts say the recommendation of the two judges underscores the NJC’s pivotal role in shaping appointments and promotions within Nigeria’s superior courts. Their elevation is expected to take effect following the necessary presidential notification and confirmation procedures.

The full list of judges recommended for elevation includes:

Hon. Justice Raphael Ajuwa – Bayelsa State

Hon. Justice Ijohor M. Jennifer – Benue State

Hon. Justice Abua Elias Ojie – Cross River State

Hon. Justice Emeka Nwite – Ebonyi State

Hon. Justice Abodunde M. Oluwatoyin – Ekiti State

Hon. Justice Abdulhameed M. Yakubu – Gombe State

Hon. Justice Sanusi Kado – Katsina State

Hon. Justice Sabiu Bala Shuaibu – Kebbi State

Hon. Justice James K. Omotosho – Ogun State

Hon. Justice Ademola Enikuomehin – Ondo State

Hon. Justice Veronica Julcit Dadom – Plateau State

Hon. Justice Dauda Njane Buba – Taraba State.