Judiciary Identified as Principal Threat to Nigeria's Democracy by Peter Obi

Obi remarked on the judiciary's deterioration, emphasizing that the country's issue lies not with the electoral organization, the Independent National Electoral Commission.

Peter Obi, the Labour Party's Presidential Candidate in the 2023 election, has pinpointed the judiciary as the foremost peril to Nigeria's democratic system.

Obi remarked on the judiciary's deterioration, emphasizing that the country's issue lies not with the electoral organization, the Independent National Electoral Commission.

This was disclosed by the ex-Governor of Anambra State at the fifth commemoration of the late Justice Anthony Aniagolu, held at Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu.

Obi underscored the critical need for the rejuvenation of the Nigerian judiciary, upon which the success of other institutions and the nation's prosperity hinges.

He stated: “Today's judiciary still features a handful of exemplary judges, yet there's no denying the systemic decline. Such a downturn presents a grave risk to Nigeria's future. Justice is being increasingly monetized, favoring those who pay the most.

“Discussions about democracy often lead to accusations against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as the culprit.

“However, INEC isn't the issue. Rather, it's the judiciary. The judiciary stands as the greatest menace to Nigeria. An efficient judiciary is vital for the flourishing of our businesses.”

Regarding the rule of law, the former governor expressed, “Compromising the rule of law disproportionately impacts the most vulnerable in society, unraveling the societal fabric. It endangers the integrity of our institutions, human rights protection, and national stability.

The rule of law represents the most invaluable, intangible asset of any community. It demands our relentless dedication to its defense and preservation. The quest for justice must take precedence.

“I stressed the pressing necessity to revitalize our judicial system, ensuring its autonomy and fostering the principles of character, competence, capability, compassion, and integrity among our judges and political leaders alike.

“Such measures will guarantee the prevalence of justice and equity as we strive to forge a superior Nigeria for everyone.

Nigeria has devolved into a state where lawlessness prevails, with a nearly non-existent judiciary. Without the rule of law, anyone can be subjugated.

“With the judiciary's commercialization and dependency on financial influence, securing genuine justice has become arduous. Whenever the judiciary falters, society inevitably suffers.”

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