Judiciary Under Fire: Public Criticism And The Role Of Judicial Integrity
The Nigerian judiciary continues to face intense scrutiny from the public, with critics highlighting issues such as corruption and delayed justice. This ongoing backlash has sparked significant discourse among politicians, legal experts, and the public.
One of the most vocal critics, former Senator Ishaku Abbo of Adamawa North, recently lamented that Nigerian democracy cannot thrive without an overhaul of the judiciary, which he claims delivers injustice instead of justice. Abbo, who was recently disqualified by the Appeal Court despite winning his case at the Tribunal, accused some judicial officers of corruption and interference in legal proceedings. He alleged that a top judicial figure even sought a bribe on behalf of the judges handling his case, an accusation supported by camera footage he claims to have.
In a similar vein, Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, voiced concerns over the decline in the judiciary’s effectiveness. While acknowledging that a few judges still maintain integrity, Obi warned that justice in Nigeria is increasingly determined by the highest bidder, undermining the rule of law. Speaking at the fifth memorial of Justice Anthony Nnaemeka Aniagolu at Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu, Obi stressed the need for stronger institutions and a greater commitment to the sanctity of the law to safeguard Nigeria’s future and democracy.
These statements are part of a broader narrative of public discontent with the judiciary, which has been criticized for its handling of high-profile cases. In 2021, senior lawyers criticized the Court of Appeal for failing to deliver a ruling on a case involving former Chief Justice Walter Onnoghen, citing systemic delays and lack of accountability. Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), speaking at a valedictory session for Chief Judge Abdul Kafarati, condemned the judiciary’s silence and highlighted incidents of judicial intimidation, such as the 2016 raid on the homes of judges by DSS operatives.
Furthermore, last year, former NBA President Dr. Olisa Agbakoba expressed his loss of confidence in the judiciary, suggesting that Supreme Court decisions should be subject to legislative review. His remarks drew criticism from other legal figures, including Dr. Akin Onigbinde, who dismissed Agbakoba’s stance as irresponsible and counterproductive.
In defense of the judiciary, former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, has reiterated that public opinion cannot override the Constitution. Speaking during the inauguration of new judges in Abuja, Ariwoola acknowledged the regular attacks on the judiciary but emphasized that judges must apply the law as enshrined in the Constitution, maintaining moral integrity and upholding public trust. He urged judicial officers to remain steadfast in their commitment to justice despite external pressures, asserting that those with integrity will stand out and preserve the judiciary’s credibility.
