JUDICIAL IMPARTIALITY UNDER SIEGE: A THREAT TO NIGERIA’S STABILITY
THE IMPERATIVE OF JUSTICE DELIVERY: NIGERIA’S JUDICIARY IN FOCUS
The Court stands as the last bastion of defence for the Constitution, entrusted with the sacred duty of upholding the rule of law and consistency in its rulings. However, when the judiciary appears to abandon its impartiality, the very foundations of democracy are shaken. The warning is clear: if judicial rulings continue to seem inconsistent and politically motivated, Nigeria’s Fourth Republic faces serious instability.
The judiciary’s impartiality is the cornerstone of justice, ensuring that the law is applied fairly and equally to all citizens. Any perception of bias or partiality undermines the public’s trust in the institution, eroding the fabric of society. A compromised judiciary can lead to social unrest, as citizens feel disenfranchised and seek alternative means to address grievances.
When the judiciary succumbs to political influence, the consequences are far-reaching then the rule of law gives way to the rule of man, where personal interests and agendas dictate outcomes.
If the Court fails to maintain its independence and impartiality, Nigeria’s Fourth Republic may face severe instability. The consequences of such actions can be far-reaching, undermining the public’s trust in the judiciary and potentially triggering widespread discontent among citizens.
If it adhere to international best principles on the rule of law, the Court can safeguard its independence, maintain public trust, and ensure Nigeria’s continued stability. The Court’s impartiality is crucial to the nation’s well-being; it must not compromise its integrity by becoming a political tool or acting as a “hatchet agent” for any political interest.
Public confidence in the judiciary plummets, fostering widespread disillusionment.
Social cohesion is threatened, as divisions deepen and tensions rise.
Investor confidence wanes, hindering economic growth and development. Nigeria’s international reputation suffers, damaging diplomatic relations.
Preserving Judicial Impartiality and to maintain its integrity, the National Judicial Council (NJC) and Supreme Court must:
Uphold Constitutional principles, ensuring rulings align with existing laws.
Foster transparency, providing clear explanations for decisions and maintaining open communication channels while also resisting external pressures, remaining immune to political influence. Ensure merit based appointment in recruitment, diversity and inclusivity in judicial appointments. Embrace accountability, subjecting itself to constructive criticism.
Nigeria’s judiciary must recognize the gravity of its role in shaping the nation’s future by adhering to the principles of impartiality,
The judiciary’s impartiality is not merely an ideal but a necessity. As the last line of defence against tyranny and oppression, the Court must remain steadfast in its commitment to justice, fairness, and the Constitution. Nigeria’s stability depends on it.
Nigeria’s judiciary must recognize the distinction between judgment delivery and justice delivery, prioritizing the latter to uphold the principles of fairness, equity and justice. Addressing the challenges and implementing reforms will strengthen public trust, promote the rule of law and ensure that justice is served. By doing so, the judiciary will reinforce its role as a guardian of justice and a bastion of hope for the Nigerian people.
Judicial corruption and rascality in Nigeria have severely weakened the potency of the judiciary, undermining the trust of the public and threatening the country’s democratic foundations. The persistence of corruption within the judicial system, despite increased judges’ salaries, raises concerns about the effectiveness of measures aimed at combating this issue.
FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO JUDICIAL CORRUPTION*
• Financial Influence: Payments to judges and other forms of financial inducement continue to undermine the impartiality of the judiciary.
• Political Interference: Politicians have consistently interfered with judicial appointments, promotions, and decisions, compromising the independence of the judiciary.
•Lack of Accountability: Inadequate mechanisms for holding erring judicial officers accountable have contributed to the prevalence of corruption.
CONSEQUENCES OF JUDICIAL CORRUPTION
• Erosion of Public Trust: The perception of corruption within the judiciary has led to widespread disillusionment among Nigerians.
• Undermining of Democracy: Judicial corruption has compromised the integrity of elections and the rule of law, threatening Nigeria’s democratic progress.
• Impeded Justice: Corruption has delayed or denied justice to countless individuals, perpetuating inequality and injustice.
REFORM EFFORTS
• National Judicial Council (NJC): Established to uphold judicial integrity and address corruption, the NJC must strengthen its efforts to hold erring judges accountable.
• Judicial Reforms: Institutional reforms, such as improved transparency and accountability mechanisms, are essential to combating corruption and restoring public trust.
• Increased Transparency: Regular audits, asset declarations, and open judicial proceedings can help prevent corruption and ensure accountability.
Addressing judicial corruption and rascality in Nigeria requires a multi-faceted approach that involves institutional reforms, increased transparency, and accountability. By strengthening the judiciary’s independence and integrity, Nigeria Court can restore public trust and ensure the delivery of justice for all.
CHIEF AMEH PETER
NATIONAL SECRETARY, CUPP.
FORMER NATIONAL CHAIRMAN IPAC.
EX PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE.
oppositioncoalitioncupp@gmail.com
