“Kangaroo Judgment”: NBA President Warns Pauline Tallen To Apologise Or Face Litigation Over Comment

President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Yakubu Maikyau has asked the Minister of Women Affairs And Social Development, Dame Pauline Tallen to apologize over her “Kangaroo judgement” comment within 7 days or face litigation.

Tallen reportedly made the said comment while addressing journalists at the annual general meeting of her alma mater, in reference to the judgement of the Federal High Court in SUIT NO: FHC/CS/YL/12/22  between Mallam Nuhu Ribadu Vs APC & 2 Others.

The court had, in resolving the issues in the suit, held that the Adamawa State All Progressives Congress (APC) Governorship primary election, was invalid having been conducted in violation of the Electoral Act 2022 and the APC Constitution guidelines.

As a result, the court voided the return of the 2nd defendant, Senator Aishatu Dahiru Ahmed as the winner of the primary election while also refusing the prayer for fresh primaries.

Describing the comments credited to the Minister as unfortunate, Maikyau, in a letter sighted by The Metro Lawyer (TML), asked Tallen to withdraw the comment and tender an unreserved apology to the court.

He wrote: “I also demand that the said apology be given equal publicity as your disparaging and contemptuous remark to the judgement.”

“You are to note that should you fail or refuse to do so within 7 days from the date of this letter, the NBA shall institute an action against you inter alia; a declaration that you are unfit to continue to hold any public office in Nigeria; an order that you be relieved of your current position and for perpetual injunction restraining you from holding any public office.”

The letter further reads, “Let me categorically state, the NBA does not have any interest in the matter and holds no brief for any of the parties to the dispute. However, the NBA remains steadfast and committed to its responsibility of protecting the integrity and independence of the Courts.”

“The Association does not and will not take kindly to the action of any person or group of persons which treats the Court and its processes or proceedings with levity and contempt.”

“Your comments were clearly calculated to impugn the integrity of the court, bring it to disrepute and incite the public against the judiciary,” he said.