Controversial Election Verdict Judge, Justice Joseph Shagbaor Ikyegh, Passes Away During Supreme Court Promotion

Justice Joseph Shagbaor Ikyegh, a federal appellate judge, has tragically passed away as the process for his elevation to the Supreme Court was underway.

The 65-year-old, who served as the president of the Port Harcourt Division, reportedly slumped in his hometown of Makurdi on Wednesday evening before his family members, ultimately succumbing to the unforeseen incident.

Justice Ikyegh’s untimely death follows recent accusations from political opposition in Ogun, claiming that he accepted bribes to uphold the controversial reelection of Governor Dapo Abiodun. The late judge presided over the panel that affirmed a lower tribunal’s decision, centered on a technical claim regarding the initial certification of Governor Abiodun by the electoral office INEC.

The opposition Peoples Democratic Party labeled the certification as ‘purported,’ while Justice Jane Esienanwan Inyang, the third member of the panel, dissented, asserting no justification for upholding Mr. Abiodun’s position. The dispute swiftly moved to the Supreme Court after being appealed by Ladi Adebutu, Governor Abiodun’s main challenger in the March 18 governorship poll.

Critics have deemed the ruling as one of the most contentious election petition verdicts this season. Governor Abiodun vehemently denied any judicial interference, with family and friends portraying Justice Ikyegh as a dedicated jurist committed to delivering justice to the Nigerian people. The National Judicial Council (NJC) confirmed an outstanding petition but refrained from providing further comments.

Born in 1958, Justice Ikyegh was slated to be elevated as an associate justice of the Supreme Court, a process initiated days ago and anticipated to conclude before December 31, 2023. His passing adds a somber note to an already contentious chapter in Nigerian judicial history.