The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, has called for comprehensive reforms in Nigeria’s judiciary to address inefficiencies and inconsistencies that undermine its integrity and effectiveness.
Speaking during a media chat on Sunday in Abuja, Wike expressed concern over the manipulation and delays in the judicial system, which he described as detrimental to governance and justice delivery.
“The judiciary must be above reproach and serve as the last hope of the common man. Unfortunately, we are witnessing a slow erosion of its credibility due to actions that prioritize personal or political interests over justice,” Wike stated.
Concerns Over Political Interference
The minister criticized the frequent use of courts to settle political disputes rather than uphold the rule of law. He also raised issues about the arbitrary assignment of political cases to specific judges, alleging a lack of transparency and fairness in such processes.
“These practices divide the judiciary, creating factions among judges loyal to different interests. This cannot continue if we are to maintain the integrity of our legal system,” Wike said.
Call for Oversight and Collaboration
Wike emphasized the need for stricter oversight by judicial authorities, including the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and the National Judicial Council (NJC), to address biases and ensure equitable justice delivery.
“Every citizen deserves access to a fair and impartial judicial process. We must act now to rebuild trust and ensure that the judiciary fulfills its constitutional mandate without interference,” he noted.
Advocacy for Judicial Independence
While advocating for reforms, Wike reiterated his support for judicial independence. He urged stakeholders to work collaboratively to safeguard the judiciary’s reputation and restore public confidence.
The minister’s remarks come at a time when debates around judicial accountability and independence are gaining momentum, with many Nigerians calling for structural changes to enhance transparency and fairness in the legal system.
