Judicial Storm Brews in Bayelsa as Sitting Judge Faces NJC Petition
By Passman Akpos
Yenagoa — A formal petition alleging gross misconduct and judicial recklessness has been submitted to the National Judicial Council (NJC) against Hon. Justice J. B. Lockie of the Bayelsa State High Court, Sagbama Judicial Division, igniting intense public debate and sharp exchanges on social media.
The petition, dated December 23, 2025, and referenced NJC/PET/JUD/2025/01, accuses Justice Lockie of “gross misconduct, judicial recklessness, and perversion of justice” in relation to two community-related suits: BYHC/SHC/CV/30/2025 and BYHC/SHC/CV/39/2025, both involving Arc. Dr. Oyinmiebi Bribena and parties connected to the Agbere Community
While the contents of the petition are now before the NJC, its circulation on social media platforms has drawn criticism from legal practitioners and commentators who warn against what they describe as premature public trial of a sitting judge.
One commentator, reacting sharply to the online publication of the petition, urged that it be withdrawn immediately, arguing that judges are constitutionally presumed innocent until proven guilty and are restricted from defending themselves publicly.
“Due to the sensitive nature of the Judge’s office, it is not proper to release a petition against a Judge on social media when the NJC is yet to determine it,” the commentator stated, adding that the NJC may frown at such public exposure.
Others went further, suggesting that the petition was motivated by dissatisfaction with judicial outcomes rather than misconduct, describing Justice Lockie as “a judge of fairness and integrity” within the jurisdiction.
The online exchanges quickly degenerated into sarcasm, mockery, and personal jabs, with some participants dismissing the allegations as baseless, while others questioned the credibility and intent of the petitioner. Remarks referencing past lawsuits, alleged financial disputes, and insinuations of fraud were traded freely, underscoring the highly charged atmosphere surrounding the case.
Legal analysts, however, caution that the appropriate forum for resolving such allegations remains the National Judicial Council, which has exclusive constitutional authority to investigate, discipline, or exonerate judicial officers.
They stress that while citizens retain the right to petition, turning pending complaints into public spectacles risks undermining judicial independence and due process.
As of the time of filing this report, the NJC has not issued any public statement on the petition, and no findings have been made against Justice Lockie.
Until such determination is reached, legal experts insist that all parties—petitioners, commentators, and the public—must exercise restraint and allow due process to run its course.
