The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has expressed deep concern about the current state of affairs within the Nigerian judiciary, emphasizing the need for caution to prevent the erosion of its integrity, public trust, and confidence. In a statement released on Friday, Prof Ango Abdullahi, the Convener of the Forum, highlighted the controversies surrounding recent judicial decisions, particularly in election petitions, and identified them as a significant threat to the future of democracy in Nigeria.
Recognizing the pivotal role of a fair and impartial judiciary in upholding the rule of law and safeguarding democratic principles, Abdullahi warned that any actions compromising these principles could undermine the foundation of the country’s democracy. The NEF called on all levels of the judiciary to uphold the highest ethical standards and maintain impartiality in decision-making processes, especially in cases related to elections.
The statement stressed that the judiciary plays a crucial role in sustaining constitutional democracy by ensuring the rule of law, protecting individual rights, and providing checks and balances on other branches of government. The NEF expressed concern that the current trend might lead politicians to view politics as a “do-or-die affair,” emphasizing the importance of effective adjudication to hold politicians accountable for their actions.
Abdullahi noted that the erosion of trust in the judiciary could jeopardize constitutionalism, and without a fully functional judiciary, citizens might lose trust in the democratic process. The NEF urged relevant authorities and the public to expose any allegations of corruption and undue compromise within the judiciary. They emphasized the swift prosecution of substantiated claims as a deterrent to others who may be tempted to taint the judiciary’s reputation.
The NEF called on the public to remain vigilant regarding the direction the nation’s judiciary is heading and encouraged the exposure of any perceived misconduct. The statement concluded with the firm belief that a strong and incorruptible judiciary is crucial for the development and progress of the nation.
