The Federal High Court of Nigeria has issued a strong rebuttal over the circulation of media reports that falsely used the photograph of Honourable Justice Ijeoma Ojukwu in connection with the recent killing of retired Delta State High Court Judge, Honourable Justice Ifeoma Okogwu.
In a statement released on Sunday, the Court clarified that Justice Ojukwu is alive, in good health, and continues to serve with distinction on the Federal High Court bench. The Court stressed that she has no connection—direct or indirect—to the circumstances surrounding Justice Okogwu’s death.
Describing the publications as “false, misleading, and malicious,” the Court said the wrongful use of Justice Ojukwu’s image amounted to defamation and a serious breach of ethical and professional standards. The misidentification, it noted, has caused emotional distress to the Judge, her family, and the wider judicial community.
Citing Nigerian defamation laws, the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, and media regulatory standards, the Federal High Court demanded immediate compliance with the following directives:
* Removal of all posts, articles, and broadcasts featuring the wrongly used photograph.
* A clear public retraction acknowledging the misidentification.
* A written and publicly disseminated apology to Justice Ojukwu across all platforms where the misinformation was shared.
The Court urged journalists, bloggers, and media organisations to exercise due diligence in verifying images and facts, especially when reporting on judicial officers whose reputations are integral to the justice system.
It warned that failure to comply with the notice—or any continued use of the false image—would be deemed deliberate malice, prompting civil and criminal action.
“The Court remains committed to safeguarding the dignity and integrity of all judicial officers in Nigeria,” the statement said.
The release was signed by Dr. Catherine Oby Christopher, Director of Information, Federal High Court of Nigeria, dated November 9, 2025.
