PARALLAX SNAPS: Before Politicians’ Fire and Brimstone Consume My Lords in Courts

BY TONY OKAFOR

Prof. Niyi Osundare’s poem, “My Lord, Tell Me Where to Keep Your Bribe,” is a scathing critique of Nigeria’s corrupt judiciary.

The Nigerian judiciary, once revered as the last hope for the common man, is facing a crisis of confidence.

The recent happenings in all strata of the judiciary are a cause for concern, and it is imperative that we remind this institution of its sacred role in our democracy.

In most climes, judges have played a significant role in political engineering and societal growth, often surpassing politicians in their impact. Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr., a renowned American jurist, is a prime example.

As the third arm of government, the judiciary is entrusted with the responsibility of checks and balances, ensuring that the other two arms do not overstep their constitutional bounds.

However, the recent interpretations of some Nigerian laws, especially the constitution, are not only nauseating but also annoying.

The judiciary’s handling of issues like defections by politicians has been nothing short of a mockery.

The swift adjudication of political matters, in contrast to the prolonged delays in cases involving land disputes or criminal offences, raises suspicions of underlying financial motivations.

The judiciary’s failure to uphold the rule of law and protect citizens’ rights has eroded public trust and confidence.

As Dr. Sonny Onyegbula noted, “The judiciary in Nigeria has faced numerous challenges that have eroded public trust and confidence in its ability to deliver justice.”

It is no wonder that recently the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu, had the temerity to take up the court and lecture them on point of law.

It is time for the judiciary to take a long, hard look at itself and remember its role as the last hope for the common man.

It must assert its independence and impartiality, free from executive interference and political pressure.

Lord Denning, a renowned jurist, once said, “The judiciary is the guardian of the law (the constitution) and it is their duty to ensure that the other two arms of government do not violate it.”

In all we do, let’s remember….it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment.