In a thought-provoking address at the Justice Anthony Aniagolu Memorial Lecture, Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, underscored a troubling reality: the erosion of Nigeria’s judicial independence by the influence of the executive and monetary interests.
Speaking at the event organized by the family and hosted by Godfrey Okoye University in Enugu, Obi emphasized the vital role of incorruptible judges in upholding justice. Reflecting on his own experience, he recalled a time when the judiciary served as a beacon of hope for those denied their rights.
During his lecture titled “The Judiciary and the Future of Nigeria,” Obi recounted his electoral victory in Anambra State, which was initially unrecognized. He recounted how he sought recourse through the courts, highlighting the judiciary’s pivotal role in safeguarding democratic principles.
Obi lamented the growing compromise of judicial independence, asserting that while bodies like the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) may not be the primary issue, the judiciary’s susceptibility to external pressures poses a grave concern.
He emphasized the imperative of a robust judiciary in combating criminality and fostering societal progress. According to Obi, the rule of law serves as the bedrock of any thriving democracy, with judicial independence being its cornerstone.
In conclusion, Obi called for concerted efforts to fortify the judiciary against undue influence, affirming that a strong and impartial judiciary is indispensable for Nigeria’s prosperity and democratic stability.
