Body Of Benchers Concerned Over Negative Public Perception Of Nigerian Judiciary
The Body of Benchers has expressed concern over the widespread perception that Nigeria’s judiciary is plagued by corruption, bias, and a lack of integrity and accountability. Chief Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN, speaking on behalf of the body at a Supreme Court valedictory session honoring the late Justice Emmanuel Ayoola in Abuja on Monday, highlighted that these issues often arise from conflicting decisions made by courts of equal authority, potentially influenced by external interference.
Awomolo pointed out that such conflicts frequently involve cases related to political parties and figures, weakening the judiciary’s authority and trustworthiness. He emphasized that a judiciary undermined by corruption and inefficiency threatens democracy and fosters impunity. He called for accountability within the Bar and Bench, urging the National Judicial Council (NJC) to assert its power to address misconduct.
The late Justice Ayoola, who passed at 90, was remembered for his steadfast fight against corruption, dedication to judicial integrity, and exemplary legal career. Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, praised Ayoola as a beacon of legal wisdom and integrity whose influence reached beyond Nigeria to courts in Gambia and Seychelles.
Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, affirmed federal support for the judiciary, including efforts to update outdated laws to better serve contemporary society. The President of the Nigerian Bar Association, represented by its General Secretary, and Justice Awa Bah of The Gambia also paid tribute, noting Ayoola’s far-reaching impact on legal practice and human rights advocacy.
