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Nigeria’s Supreme Court Justice, Mohammed Baba Idris, has declared that judicial independence remains the bedrock of democracy, warning that any attempt to subject the judiciary to political, financial or institutional influence could undermine constitutional governance and the rule of law.
Justice Idris made the assertion on Monday while delivering the keynote lecture titled, “The Repositioning for Effective Justice Delivery and Democratic Stability in Nigeria,” at the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Benin Branch Law Week held in Benin, Edo State.
The Supreme Court Jurist described an independent judiciary as the cornerstone upon which democratic institutions and constitutional order are built, stressing that courts must remain free from external pressures to effectively discharge their constitutional responsibilities.
According to him, a judiciary that is subjected to undue influence cannot function as an impartial arbiter between citizens and the State, thereby weakening public confidence in democratic institutions.
“A judiciary that is demonstrably independent is essential to preserving constitutional balance, sustaining democratic governance and inspiring public trust in the justice system,” he stated.
Justice Idris further emphasised the need for the full implementation of constitutional provisions guaranteeing financial autonomy for the judiciary, noting that such provisions must be respected by all tiers of government.
He also advocated transparent and merit-based judicial appointments, promotions and disciplinary procedures, insisting that the processes must remain insulated from partisan interests and political interference.
The jurist maintained that strengthening judicial independence would enhance effective justice delivery and contribute significantly to democratic stability in the country.
In his remarks, the Chief Judge of Edo State, Justice Daniel Okungbowa, described the Law Week theme, “Reforming Today, Securing Tomorrow,” as apt and relevant to the challenges confronting the nation’s justice sector.
Justice Okungbowa observed that the future of Nigeria’s judicial system depends largely on the decisions being taken today and the reforms stakeholders are willing to embrace.
He noted that reform should not be viewed as a sign of weakness but rather as evidence of institutional strength and a commitment to progress.
“The future of our justice system depends on the decisions we take today and even on those actions we refuse to take. Reform is not a sign of weakness; it is a demonstration of strength and foresight,” he said.
Also speaking, Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Benin Branch, popularly known as the Lion Bar, Mr. Idemudia Osifo, called on the State Government and other levels of government to treat judicial independence as a constitutional imperative rather than a political slogan.
Osifo urged governments to provide adequate funding for the judiciary, faithfully implement court judgments and comply fully with valid court orders.
He stressed that respect for the rule of law remains the foundation of democratic governance and the credibility of the nation’s justice system.
According to him, the integrity and effectiveness of the judiciary depend significantly on the willingness of the executive arm of government to obey the law and honour judicial pronouncements.
He warned that disregard for court orders and failure to enforce judgments erode public confidence in the justice system and pose serious threats to constitutional democracy.
The NBA chairman reiterated the commitment of the legal profession to promoting reforms capable of strengthening the judiciary and ensuring efficient justice delivery across the country.
The event attracted judges, senior lawyers, legal practitioners, academics and other stakeholders in the justice sector, who deliberated on measures to enhance the administration of justice and deepen democratic governance in Nigeria.
