Stakeholders call for holistic reform of Nigerian judicial system

Members of the United World Congress of Diplomats (UN-WCD) have called for holistic reform of the Nigerian judicial system to rekindle the confidence of Nigerians. Addressing a press conference on Thursday in Abuja, a Professor of Politics & International Studies, Amb. Tunji John Asaolu, who was flanked by other members of the UN-WCD also called […]

Members of the United World Congress of Diplomats (UN-WCD) have called for holistic reform of the Nigerian judicial system to rekindle the confidence of Nigerians.

Addressing a press conference on Thursday in Abuja, a Professor of Politics & International Studies, Amb. Tunji John Asaolu, who was flanked by other members of the UN-WCD also called on the Benue State governor, Hyacinth Alia, to swiftly appoint an Acting Chief Judge of the state to prevent a vacuum.

Recall that the Benue State House of Assembly had removed Justice Maurice Ikpembese as the Chief Judge of the state and recommended the swearing-in of Justice Theresa Igoche, the next most senior judge as the acting chief judge of the state.

The removal was sequel to a petition from the state governor, Hyacinth Alia, who accused the state chief judge of abuse of office among other infractions.

Prof Asaolu said the call for judiciary reform was necessitated by alleged undue inference of judicial workers in Rivers, Osun,  Benue and other states on political issues where conflicting orders were issued by judges to “frustrate democracy.”

He also called on the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and the National Judicial Council (NJC) to exercise caution and restraint in passing judgement on the removal of the Benue Chief Judge, Justice Maurice Ikpambese, untill a thorough investigation is conducted.

“We emphasise the importance of upholding the rule of law and ensuring accountability for all public officials, including judges. Any acts of misconduct or abuse of power must be met with swift and decisive action to maintain public trust and confidence in the judiciary.

“We can assure you that we will continue to monitor the situation closely and advocate for ethical governance practices in Nigeria and beyond,” Prof Asaolu said.

He said all notable figures who supported the actions of the Chief Judge publicly should be sanctioned and have their existing visas canceled and visa ban issued against them.”