Rivers Assembly Demands DSS Probe into Chief Judge Over Alleged Age Falsification

 

Rivers Assembly Demands DSS Probe into Chief Judge Over Alleged Age Falsification

Judicial Integrity Under Scrutiny as Rivers Assembly Calls for Investigation

The Rivers State House of Assembly has set the stage for a major legal showdown, urging the Department of State Services (DSS) to investigate the Chief Judge of the state, Justice Simeon Amadi, over allegations of age falsification. This explosive development raises critical concerns about judicial credibility, accountability, and ethical governance in Nigeria.



Unmasking the Controversy: Allegations of Age Manipulation

During a recent plenary session, Honorable Major Jack, the House Leader, dropped a bombshell—presenting documents that suggest Justice Amadi may have tampered with official birth records to unlawfully extend his tenure. The revelation sent shockwaves through the Assembly, with Deputy Speaker Dumle Maol stating:

"These documents before me indicate that the Chief Judge of the state, Justice Simeon Amadi, falsified his age while in service. Mr. Speaker, this is a grave allegation, and I hope this House takes legislative action." (Source)

Legislative Intervention: DSS Ordered to Launch Probe

In response to the allegations, the Assembly passed a resolution compelling the DSS to conduct a comprehensive investigation into Justice Amadi’s age records. Speaker Martin Amaewhule underscored the need for due process, emphasizing that:

"The documents before us point to possible age falsification. As lawmakers, we have a duty to ensure transparency. Therefore, a full-scale investigation is necessary." 

Age falsification within the judiciary is not a minor clerical error—it’s a fundamental breach of ethical standards that can erode public confidence in the legal system. The judiciary stands as the last line of defense for justice; any compromise in its integrity shakes the foundation of democracy itself.

This case adds to a growing list of age-related scandals in Nigeria’s legal system. In November 2024, the National Judicial Council (NJC) recommended the compulsory retirement of two top judicial officers—Justice T. E. Chukwuemeka Chikeka of Imo State and Kadi Babagana Mahdi of Yobe State—after uncovering multiple discrepancies in their birth records.

Justice Chikeka’s records listed conflicting birth dates—October 27, 1956, and October 27, 1958—while Kadi Mahdi had three different recorded dates: December 10, January 28, and July, all in 1959. The NJC determined that Mahdi should have retired as far back as 2012, exposing a deeply rooted problem of falsified credentials within the judiciary. 

The DSS, Nigeria’s top intelligence agency, plays a crucial role in maintaining national security and enforcing ethical governance. Their involvement in this probe signals the gravity of the allegations against Justice Amadi. If the investigation substantiates the claims, the consequences could be severe—ranging from forced retirement to potential criminal prosecution.

Conversely, if the accusations are proven baseless, it would reinforce the necessity of due diligence and safeguard the presumption of innocence.

If found guilty, Justice Amadi could face:

  • Immediate removal from office – ensuring no further extension of his tenure.
  • Legal proceedings – potential criminal charges for document falsification.
  • Judicial reforms – reinforcing tighter oversight on age verification for judges.

On the other hand, if the claims are dismissed, it could serve as a reminder to legislators to base accusations on irrefutable evidence before making public declarations.

The Rivers State House of Assembly’s call for a DSS-led investigation into Justice Simeon Amadi’s alleged age falsification underscores the importance of transparency in governance. As the probe unfolds, Nigeria watches closely—hoping for a fair, impartial process that upholds the principles of justice.

This case isn’t just about one judge—it’s about the sanctity of Nigeria’s legal institutions. The judiciary must remain an incorruptible beacon of justice, free from any form of malpractice. In the words of the revered legal icon Lord Denning:

"Justice must not only be done but must also be seen to be done."

Will this investigation restore faith in the judiciary, or will it expose deeper cracks in the system? The coming weeks will tell.

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