Judges Should Be Free from Political Appointments – Justice James Ogebe

Justice James Ogenyi Ogebe, who retired from the Supreme Court of Nigeria in 2010, has over four decades of legal experience. His career began in Benue- Plateau State, where he served as a government lawyer and later held various judicial roles, culminating in his tenure on the Supreme Court from 2008 to 2010.

In a recent discussion, Justice Ogebe emphasized the importance of maintaining a separation between politics and the judiciary. He was asked about his educational journey, starting from his village in Benue to his enrollment in the Government College, Keffi. Reflecting on his early education, he mentioned attending Methodist Primary School in Igumale, the site of the Methodist Church's first establishment in Nigeria in 1924.

After excelling in an entrance test, he proceeded to Benue Middle School, which later evolved into a provincial secondary school. In 1956, he gained admittance into Government College, Keffi, one of the notable secondary institutions in northern Nigeria at that time.

Discussing his educational experience, Ogebe shared that gaining admission to prestigious schools like Government College was a competitive process, requiring entrance exams and interviews to ensure a diverse representation from different provinces.

Having served as head boy at Government College, he developed leadership skills early in life. Reflecting on this role, he stated he maintained discipline among students as a prefect, ensuring they adhered to school rules.

As for his career choice in law, Justice Ogebe revealed it stemmed from a childhood curiosity about legal matters. His pursuit of law intensified after a prize award in Latin at a young age, ultimately leading him to pursue a legal education at Ahmadu Bello University, which had just begun its law program at the time. Though he initially aimed to study in England, he accepted an alternative opportunity to attend ABU and eventually graduated in 1967.

Justice Ogebe’s professional journey included roles such as state counsel and chief registrar in the old Benue-Plateau. He chose to serve in government out of gratitude for the scholarships and opportunities provided to him throughout his education, emphasizing the honor associated with public service.

Later in his career, he faced challenges in his judicial path, particularly regarding the politics surrounding judicial appointments in Benue. Despite being recommended for a judgeship, he experienced setbacks due to political dynamics, which highlighted the competition among various ethnic groups within the state.

Ogebe’s promotion to the Court of Appeal was a significant achievement after serving as an acting judge. He noted that throughout his career, he encountered politically charged cases, such as the high-profile case involving the impeachment of Oyo State Governor Rashidi Ladoja, which he adjudicated, ultimately restoring Ladoja to office.

Similarly, he presided over the case concerning Peter Obi’s impeachment from Anambra State, applying the legal precedent set in Ladoja's case. In both instances, Ogebe navigated the complexities of political influence while upholding the rule of law, ensuring that the decisions reflected the will of the people rather than political machinations.

Justice Ogebe expressed concern over the increasing perception that judges are becoming the arbiters of political outcomes, urging for reforms to remove political influences from judicial appointments. He proposed the establishment of an independent body to oversee judicial appointments, asserting that it is essential for the integrity of the legal system.

Finally, reflecting on his brief tenure at the Supreme Court at the age of 68, he viewed it as a fulfillment of his lifelong ambition, despite the relatively short duration of his service. Since retiring, he has dedicated his time to evangelistic work, engaging in community outreach and efforts to inspire youth, all while enjoying his well-earned pension.