In a startling revelation, Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, has disclosed that politicians and other stakeholders in the political arena have resorted to threatening judges in a bid to sway court judgments in their favor. Justice Ariwoola emphasized the intense pressure and risks faced by judges due to the heightened attention and emotions surrounding political cases in Nigeria.
Addressing a two-day workshop organized by the Court of Appeal for the review of last year’s election petition tribunals and courts, Justice Ariwoola cautioned judges against yielding to external influences and emphasized the importance of upholding the rule of law in their judicial duties.
“Political matters always tend to occupy the front burner of our adjudicatory activities,” Justice Ariwoola remarked, highlighting the stringent timeframes within which electoral cases must be heard and decided. He further expressed concern over the dangers judges face, including threats from elements within the political sphere.
Despite these challenges, Justice Ariwoola stressed the imperative for judicial officers to remain steadfast in upholding justice and not succumb to intimidation or public sentiments. He urged judges to rely on their conscience as their guiding principle.
President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, acknowledged the immense workload faced by judges during the 2023 general election litigation season, with 99 panels comprising three judges each handling the cases. She commended the dedication of judicial officers involved and called for learning from past shortcomings to improve future processes.
Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), lauded the Judiciary for its stabilizing role in the electoral process, emphasizing its significance in maintaining democracy and the rule of law in Nigeria.