Comrade Mulade Sheriff Calls on President Tinubu to Safeguard Judicial Independence
WARRI/Nigeria: Renowned Niger Delta human rights and peace advocate, Comrade Sheriff Mulade, has issued an impassioned appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging him to protect the integrity and independence of Nigeria’s judiciary.
In a statement, made available to Ndokwa Reporters on Monday, October 14, 2024, Comrade Sheriff emphasised that the judiciary serves as the bedrock of democracy and the final hope for ordinary citizens seeking justice.
Sheriff’s plea comes amidst growing concerns over the politicisation of the courts and controversial judgments that have shaken public confidence. He called on President Tinubu to take immediate steps to restore faith in the judicial system and ensure that justice is delivered impartially.
In his statement, Comrade Sheriff asserted, “Mr President, it has become imperative to appeal to you formally to salvage our judiciary, which is the core of society and democracy. A fair and independent judiciary guarantees equity, fairness, and justice for all Nigerians. Without it, our democratic system risks collapsing under political pressure.”
He expressed particular concern over recent court decisions that have sowed confusion and undermined trust in the judiciary. “Nigeria’s judiciary has long been the beacon of hope, not only for Nigerians but for the African continent. However, recent developments suggest that political interference is threatening the judicial system’s integrity,” he warned.
The activist highlighted a worrying trend of political interests overshadowing legal processes, leading to decisions that seem driven by external influences rather than the rule of law. He lamented how certain cases of public importance are being dismissed on technical grounds, effectively denying justice to the common man. “The persistent dismissal of crucial cases based on technicalities frustrates the hopes of ordinary Nigerians who seek justice,” Sheriff added.
Drawing inspiration from historical figures, Comrade Sheriff urged President Tinubu to ensure that the judiciary remains free from political manipulation. He referenced leaders like George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Abraham Lincoln, who upheld the principle of separation of powers as a safeguard for democracy.
“George Washington, the founding father of the American presidential system, emphasised the importance of the separation of powers between the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. Similarly, President Jefferson advocated for an independent judiciary as the ultimate check on the excesses of government. Abraham Lincoln’s leadership during times of national crisis demonstrated the importance of an impartial judiciary to uphold democratic ideals,” he noted.
Sheriff also invoked the legacy of British jurist Lord Denning, whose famous dictum—”Justice must not only be done but must also be seen to be done”—remains a guiding principle for judicial fairness. “The Nigerian judiciary must operate transparently and free from undue influence to maintain public trust,” he urged.
Comrade Sheriff called on political judges to step down, arguing that their continued involvement threatens to erode public confidence in the judiciary. He warned that a compromised legal system could lead to chaos and anarchy, with citizens resorting to self-defence in the absence of a reliable justice system.
“Political judges in the judiciary should resign to save our justice system and the people before mass protests erupt. The failure of the judiciary will create room for anarchy, and Nigerians may take justice into their own hands,” he cautioned.
In conclusion, Sheriff urged President Tinubu to act swiftly in restoring public trust in the judiciary. He called for the eradication of political influence over court decisions and reaffirmed the judiciary’s vital role as a neutral arbiter in a functioning democracy.
“Our democracy cannot survive if the judiciary is compromised. We implore you, Mr President, to act decisively and protect the independence of the judiciary. This is a critical step towards ensuring fairness, justice, and equality for all Nigerians,” Comrade Sheriff stated.
His remarks have reignited a national debate about the role of the judiciary in safeguarding democracy, with many looking to the President for a firm response. The call to action resonates deeply across the nation as Nigerians continue to advocate for a judicial system that upholds justice and fairness without fear or favour.
