The Rivers State Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has categorically refuted allegations by a retired Chief Magistrate, Ejike George, who publicly claimed to have resigned his position in protest against the perceived “quasi-military” administration in Rivers State. Mr. George’s claims, widely circulated in a letter dated April 11, 2025, alleged that he resigned due to his discomfort with the prevailing political climate, particularly citing the declaration of a state of emergency and the subsequent appointment of what he termed a military-style administration. The JSC, however, countered this narrative, asserting that Mr. George’s departure from the judicial system was not voluntary but rather a compulsory retirement prompted by disciplinary action taken against him.
In an official statement released on April 14, 2025, titled “Disclaimer,” the acting Secretary of the JSC, Blessing Vic-Jumbo, clarified that Mr. George was compulsorily retired effective February 10, 2025, following a disciplinary hearing that found him guilty of prolonged unauthorized absence from his official duties. The commission detailed Mr. George’s absence, stating that he was away from work without official leave from August 25, 2023, to December 2024, a period exceeding one year. This extended absence, according to the JSC, constituted a serious breach of service regulations and led to the disciplinary proceedings against him.
The JSC’s statement further emphasized the due process followed in Mr. George’s case. According to the commission, Mr. George was initially offered the option of voluntary retirement within a stipulated timeframe. However, he failed to respond to this offer within the given deadline, which subsequently necessitated the commission to proceed with his compulsory retirement. The JSC meticulously documented these proceedings and duly communicated the decision to Mr. George, effectively ending his tenure within the judicial system. This documented timeline clearly contradicts Mr. George’s claims of a politically motivated resignation.
The JSC unequivocally rejected any connection between Mr. George’s retirement and the political developments within Rivers State. The commission characterized Mr. George’s narrative as “a contrived falsehood” designed to garner public sympathy and undeserved attention. By framing his exit as a principled stand against the state’s political direction, Mr. George, according to the JSC, attempted to manipulate public perception and portray himself as a victim of political circumstances. The JSC urged the public to disregard Mr. George’s version of events, emphasizing the factual basis of his compulsory retirement due to disciplinary reasons.
The commission underscored the gravity of Mr. George’s prolonged unauthorized absence, emphasizing that such conduct undermines the integrity and efficient functioning of the judicial system. By absenting himself from his duties for such an extended period without proper authorization, Mr. George not only neglected his responsibilities but also potentially disrupted the administration of justice within the state. The JSC highlighted its commitment to maintaining discipline and upholding the highest standards of conduct within the judiciary, reiterating that Mr. George’s retirement was a direct consequence of his failure to adhere to these principles.
In conclusion, the Rivers State Judicial Service Commission firmly dismissed Mr. George’s claims, providing a detailed account of the disciplinary proceedings and the reasons for his compulsory retirement. The commission emphasized the importance of maintaining factual accuracy and urged the public to rely on official statements rather than unsubstantiated allegations. The JSC’s response serves to clarify the circumstances surrounding Mr. George’s departure from the judiciary, emphasizing the due process followed and rejecting any attempt to politicize the matter. The commission reiterated its commitment to upholding judicial integrity and ensuring accountability within its ranks.
