BREAKING: Court of Appeal Redeploys Justices Nationwide, Retains Wike’s Wife in Abuja — Major Judicial Shake-up Across Nigeria
In a decisive move aimed at strengthening the judicial system, the Court of Appeal of Nigeria has announced the redeployment of justices across its divisions nationwide. This sweeping administrative reshuffle, disclosed on April 28, 2025, by Gistcore News, signals a major shift in the operations of Nigeria’s appellate courts.
Notably, the wife of former Rivers State governor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Chief Nyesom Wike — Justice Eberechi Suzzette Wike — has been retained in the Abuja division, sparking significant public and legal community interest.
Major Highlights of the Redeployment
According to official sources within the judiciary, the massive redeployment affects several divisions. In a significant development, appeals previously scheduled to be heard in Awka (Anambra State) and Gombe (Gombe State) divisions will now be redirected to neighboring divisions for hearing.
This adjustment is expected to enhance efficiency, reduce case backlogs, and ensure that justice is dispensed in a timely manner. The President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, reportedly approved the changes after a strategic review of the needs and workloads of various divisions.
The redeployment exercise comes as part of ongoing efforts to ensure that Nigeria’s judiciary remains independent, impartial, and responsive to the demands of the Nigerian populace.
Justice Eberechi Wike’s Retention in Abuja Division
Justice Eberechi Suzzette Wike’s retention in the Abuja division has generated considerable discussion. Given her prominent background and public profile, observers note that retaining her at the nation’s capital ensures that cases of significant national interest continue to receive experienced and unbiased adjudication.
Court insiders revealed that the decision to retain Justice Wike was based purely on administrative considerations, especially her distinguished record and familiarity with cases already before the Abuja division.
It is important to note that Abuja remains one of the busiest appellate divisions in Nigeria, handling a vast array of high-profile civil, criminal, electoral, and constitutional matters.
Appeals From Awka and Gombe to Be Heard Elsewhere
In another key aspect of the redeployment, all pending appeals from Awka and Gombe will now be reassigned to nearby divisions. This adjustment reportedly aims to address administrative bottlenecks and promote faster resolution of cases, especially in areas where the volume of appeals has outstripped available judicial resources.
Litigants, legal practitioners, and court users from the affected areas are advised to stay updated on new schedules and venues for the hearing of their cases.
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has welcomed the move, describing it as a “bold step toward administrative excellence and judicial effectiveness.” In a brief statement, the NBA emphasized the importance of ensuring that justice remains accessible to all Nigerians, irrespective of geographical location.
Implications for Nigeria’s Legal Landscape
Analysts believe that the latest reshuffle could have far-reaching implications for the country’s legal system, especially as Nigeria continues to grapple with election petitions, economic disputes, and constitutional challenges.
With a growing demand for judicial reforms and quicker adjudication of cases, the Court of Appeal’s decision reflects a clear commitment to proactive leadership and innovation within Nigeria’s judiciary.
Legal experts commend the move, asserting that a more flexible and responsive judiciary is crucial for national development, investor confidence, and the sustenance of democratic governance.
Conclusion
The redeployment of justices by the Court of Appeal marks a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s legal history. As the judiciary continues to adapt to the challenges of a dynamic society, the commitment to transparency, efficiency, and professionalism remains paramount.
Justice Eberechi Wike’s continued presence at the Abuja division, alongside the strategic reassignment of appeals from Awka and Gombe, exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to judicial administration.
Nigerians and the broader legal community will be closely watching the effects of these changes in the weeks and months ahead, as the Court of Appeal seeks to solidify its role as the guardian of justice and constitutionalism in Africa’s most populous nation.
