Judicial Shake-Up: Appeal Court President Challenges Nigerians To Show Evidence Of Corrupt Judges

The President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, has challenged Nigerians making allegations of judicial corruption to present credible evidence to support their claims.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

She issued the challenge on Monday in Abuja during a special court session to officially open the Court of Appeal’s 2025/2026 legal year.

Justice Dongban-Mensem expressed concern over what she described as growing, unfounded criticism directed at the Judiciary—especially when the Executive provides legitimate support to judicial officers to enhance justice delivery.

“We keep hearing about corruption among judges. Please, bring the evidence — that is what we need,” she said.
“Since no one has produced proof to back these accusations, I know we are not corrupt. We are doing our very best.”

The PCA condemned a rising trend where legal practitioners encourage petitions against judges simply because their clients are dissatisfied with court rulings. She stressed that lawful appeals — not petitions — remain the proper channel for challenging judicial decisions.

Justice Dongban-Mensem further advocated improved welfare and secure housing for judges, referencing the recent murder of a retired Delta State judge who lived in an unsafe environment.

“Even after leaving office we remain vulnerable, because of the decisions we have taken,” she noted.

She urged both federal and state governments to make housing provisions for all judicial officers, not just heads of courts, highlighting the demanding nature of their responsibilities.

“Our commitment to the nation is priceless. We have no alternative job. We read files, write judgments, and dedicate our lives to justice,” she explained.
“Government support does not influence our decisions. We follow the facts and apply the law.”

The Court of Appeal president insisted that judges must not be burdened with unnecessary petitions over rulings that should properly be contested through higher courts.