By Hassanat Adebowale
The United World Congress of Diplomats (UN-WCD) has called for strict adherence to the Rule of Law to prevent interference in Nigeria’s judicial system. This was emphasized by the Secretary-General of the UN-WCD, Amb. Tunji Asaolu, during a news conference in Abuja on Friday. The event, themed “Political Interference by Judicial Officers in Nigeria: A Call for Caution,” was organized in collaboration with the International Institute of Experts on Political Economy and Administration (IIEPEA).
Asaolu condemned the reported cases of judicial workers interfering in political matters, which he said hinder the growth of democracy. “We received complaints from states like Rivers and Benue about judges issuing conflicting orders to frustrate democracy,” Asaolu stated.
He cited an example from Osun, where there was a conflicting State High Court order and Appeal Court judgment over the dissolution of Local Government Council Chairmen, their reinstatement, and fresh elections by the state electoral body. Additionally, Asaolu mentioned political interference by Benue Chief Judge Maurice Ikpambese, who was accused of undermining justice by granting waivers to petitioners, exempting them from paying security deposits as required by law.
“This behavior contradicts the African Charter on Democracy, Elections, and Governance (ACDEG), which aims to promote democracy, universal values, and principles among member states. It is essential to respect human rights and the Rule of Law, which are based on the supremacy of the constitution and constitutional order in the political arrangements of state parties,” Asaolu said.
He urged the National Judicial Council to constitute an investigative panel to address the resolution passed by the Benue Legislative Arm of Government for the removal of the Chief Judge from office. “We emphasize the importance of upholding the Rule of Law and 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,” Asaolu added.
Asaolu reiterated that the UN-WCD, in collaboration with the IIEPEA, remains committed to promoting ethical governance, legal compliance, and institutional integrity in Nigeria. “We will continue to monitor the situation closely and advocate for ethical governance practices in Nigeria and beyond,” he said.
He called on all judiciary stakeholders to prioritize the interests of justice, transparency, and accountability in their actions and decisions.
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