TD Prominent lawyer and human rights advocate, Professor Chidi Odinkalu, has accused Nigerian politicians of undermining democracy by prioritizing judges over citizens.
In a widely discussed interview, Odinkalu argued that governors who struggle to pay workers’ minimum wage are instead lavishing judges with mansions, SUVs, and other perks.
“The politicians don’t need our votes to get to power. Who do they need? The judges,” Odinkalu said.
Professor Odinkalu stressed that judicial officers are being courted with luxury while ordinary citizens are neglected.
Judicial Independence Under Siege
Odinkalu condemned the practice of governors donating Toyota Prados and Land Cruisers to judges.
He insisted that such gifts violate the Code of Conduct for Judicial Officers, which prohibits judges from accepting gifts.
He warned that any judge who receives such benefits compromises their independence and risks disqualification in cases involving state governments.
He recalled the 1984 dismissal of Chief Judge Emmanuel Araka of old Anambra State, who was fired after refusing to meet Governor Alison Madueke in his office.
Odinkalu contrasted Araka’s principled stand with today’s judiciary, which he believes has largely surrendered autonomy to political power.
Consequences for Democracy
Odinkalu painted a grim picture of the fallout from judicial compromise:
- Erosion of trust: Citizens increasingly doubt the fairness of courts.
- Rise in violence: Nigerians are turning to thugs and vigilantes to recover debts instead of using legal channels.
- Collapse of arbitration: Mediation and alternative dispute resolution mechanisms are failing.
- Disregard for court orders: Judgments are ignored, undermining the rule of law.
- Irregular trials: He cited the conviction of former minister Elijah Maman in absentia as evidence of systemic decay.
Public Reactions and Implications
The remarks have sparked debate online.
Some commentators echoed Odinkalu’s concerns, describing the judiciary as “captured” by political elites.
One user noted the irony of governors concentrating resources on judges “who can help them steal the mandate” while ordinary workers remain unpaid.
Odinkalu’s critique highlights a broader crisis in Nigeria’s governance:
- Democratic accountability: If politicians rely on judges rather than voters, elections risk becoming symbolic rather than substantive.
- Judicial credibility: The perception of bias threatens the judiciary’s role as a neutral arbiter.
- Rule of law: Citizens may increasingly bypass courts, leading to lawlessness and instability.
Possible Reforms and Conclusion
Experts suggest several measures to restore confidence in the judiciary:
- Transparent judicial budgets: Funding for judges should come through institutional channels, not discretionary gifts from governors.
- Strict enforcement of conduct codes: Judges who accept gifts should face disciplinary action.
- Strengthening oversight: Independent bodies must monitor judicial appointments and benefits.
- Civic engagement: Citizens must demand accountability from both politicians and judges.
Odinkalu’s remarks serve as a stark warning: Nigeria’s judiciary, once a bastion of independence, is now endangered by political patronage.
As governors build mansions for judges while workers await their wages, the question remains whether the country can reclaim a judiciary that serves the people rather than the powerful.
