Integrity Test Disqualifies 34 Judicial Nominees as NJC Shortlists 28 for Federal High Court Bench
Thirty-four lawyers nominated by the Federal Judicial Service Commission (FJSC) for appointment as Judges of the Federal High Court have failed the public integrity and suitability test, following a barrage of petitions from members of the public challenging their character and professional conduct.
The affected nominees were part of a list of 62 lawyers published by the FJSC on September 17, 2025, for possible appointment. However, investigations triggered by public feedback led to the disqualification of more than half of the candidates.
A competent source told Daily Sun that only 28 nominees have now been shortlisted and are expected to appear before an interview panel of the National Judicial Council (NJC) in January 2026.
According to the source, the NJC meeting, scheduled for January 13-14, 2026, will deliberate on the selection process for 14 judges of the Federal High Court.
The integrity screening forms part of new guidelines approved by the NJC under the leadership of the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, aimed at preventing individuals of questionable character from being appointed as judicial officers.
Although the 62 nominees had earlier passed the Computer-Based Test (CBT) conducted by the Federal High Court, the FJSC proceeded to subject them to the integrity test by publishing their names and inviting public feedback on their reputation, suitability, and ethical standing.
One of the petitions alleged that a serving female police officer, who was among the nominees, demanded and received a ₦1 million bribe in the course of her official duties. The petition, dated September 22, 2025, was written by the law firm of Douglas, Abbas, and Gideon and addressed to the Executive Secretary of the FJSC.
Following investigations, the Police Service Commission (PSC) confirmed the allegation. In a report dated February 3, 2025, and signed by its Chairman, DIG Hashimu Salihu Argungu (Rtd), the PSC recommended the suspension of the officer and a Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) in line with Federal Civil Service Rule 100406. The PSC also directed the ICPC and EFCC to investigate and, if necessary, prosecute the officers involved.
Based on the findings from this and other petitions, the FJSC upheld only 28 nominations, forwarding the names to the NJC while dropping the remaining 34 candidates for failing the integrity test.
Confirming the development, the NJC Director of Information, Mrs. Kemi Ogedegbe, said the Council would meet in mid-January to review issues arising from the selection process.
While declining to comment on specific petitions, she stressed that the Council would not compromise standards.
“Transparency and judicial integrity remain top priorities for the Kekere-Ekun-led administration. There is no going back on that. Merit is the only factor that will count, and only those found suitable will make it,” she said.
