By Frank Efe, Warri
Comrade Mulade Sheriff, a human rights and peace advocate, has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to safeguard the integrity and independence of Nigeria’s judiciary, emphasizing its vital role as a cornerstone of democracy and a refuge for ordinary citizens seeking justice.
In a statement in Warri, Mulade noted the urgent need to restore confidence in the judicial system, warning that the erosion of judicial independence threatens the very foundation of Nigeria’s democracy.
“A fair and independent judiciary ensures justice for all Nigerians. Without it, our democratic system is at risk of crumbling under political interests,” he stated.
He expressed concern over recent court rulings that have created confusion and undermined public trust in the legal system and the troubling trend of political interference in judicial decisions.
He said some judgments seemed influenced by vested interests rather than the rule of law.
“We are apprehensive about some recent judgments that have created confusion, and chaos, and threatened to erode the reverence and trust in our justice system. Nigeria’s judiciary has been the beacon of hope, not just for Nigerians, but for the African continent.
“However, political interference and vested interests are putting our judicial integrity under severe pressure. It is frustrating to see cases of national importance dismissed without proper consideration, leaving ordinary citizens without recourse to justice,” Mulade remarked.
Drawing parallels with historical figures such as George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, he stressed the necessity of an independent judiciary in a thriving democracy.
He referenced Washington’s vision of a balanced government and Jefferson’s belief in the judiciary as a check on governmental excesses.
Sheriff also cited the legacy of British jurist Lord Denning, who asserted that justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done.
Sheriff also called for action, urging President Tinubu to take immediate steps to ensure judicial independence. “Political influence must be eradicated from our courts, allowing the judiciary to serve as a neutral arbiter of justice,” he urged.
“I want to strongly appeal to Mr President and our reverend judges to save Nigeria’s judiciary integrity irrespective of tribe, religion and political affiliation. It is worthy of note that the failure of the Nigerian judiciary will create room for chaos and anarchy that will lead to self-defence by Nigerians.
“Political judges should consider resigning to preserve our justice system. Our democracy cannot survive if the judiciary is compromised,” he said
Mulade implored President Tinubu to act decisively in defence of Nigeria’s legal framework.
