From Abdullateef Bambgose
A human rights lawyer, Nkemakolam Ukandu, has petitioned the National Judicial Council (NJC) alleging manifest bias against him by Honourable Justice Joyce O. Abdulmalik and Honourable Justice John Tsoho of the Federal High Court, Abuja.
Ukandu claimed that the judges are acting in furtherance of the interests of Nyesom Wike, a former Rivers State Governor, and are seeking to weaken opposition political parties in Nigeria.
He alleged that Justice Abdulmalik and Justice Tsoho were seen in a viral video with Nyesom Wike, allegedly seeking landed property in Abuja.
Ukandu had petitioned Justice Tsoho regarding the conduct of Justice J.K. Omotosho, alleging bias against him.
Justice Tsoho directed his assistant to sign an order refusing Ukandu’s application.
Justice Omotosho recused himself, and the case was transferred back to Justice Tsoho, who reassigned it to Justice Abdulmalik.
Ukandu is seeking the recusal of Justice Abdulmalik from the suit.
He is also seeking an investigation into the conduct of both judges and appropriate sanctions.
The NJC has been given until 2 March 2026 to respond, failing which Ukandu will seek legal remedies.
The petition stems from a suit filed by Ukandu against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and others, which has been assigned to Justice Abdulmalik.
Ukandu’s counsel had informed Justice Abdulmalik of a pending appeal and motion for stay of proceedings, but she proceeded to hear the suit.
Justice Abdulmalik adjourned proceedings in favour of the Plaintiffs’ Counsel, allowing him another opportunity to serve his response.
