Concerns Over Executive Influence in the Judiciary
The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) strongly opposes the plan by President Bola Tinubu and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike to build judges’ houses. The project intends to construct homes for justices in Abuja. HURIWA warns this sets a dangerous precedent. They accuse the executive of trying to politically capture the judiciary through such actions.
Houses for Judges Raise Conflict of Interest Fears
Wike announced that 40 houses will be built for judges, including those from the Appeal Court and High Courts. However, HURIWA argues that such gifts from the executive to the judiciary could create conflicts of interest, compromising judicial independence. The association warns that the move could encourage undue loyalty from judges to the executive, thereby undermining the integrity of judicial rulings.
HURIWA Demands Legislative Action
In its statement, HURIWA called on the National Assembly to pass urgent legislation prohibiting judges from accepting perks like houses and land allocations from the executive. Emmanuel Onwubiko, the National Coordinator of HURIWA, urged lawmakers to protect the judiciary from any form of political manipulation. He stressed that the judiciary must remain a strong, independent institution and should not become a tool for politicians to control governance and elections.
Political Patronage or Judicial Independence?
HURIWA’s concerns come as Nigeria continues to grapple with issues of judicial interference. The organisation cited numerous cases where judicial rulings have been used to manipulate political outcomes, including internal party affairs. It stressed that the judiciary should act as the last hope for ordinary Nigerians rather than being susceptible to political patronage.
Judiciary’s Role in Safeguarding Democracy
HURIWA emphasised the critical role of the judiciary in upholding democratic values. The group believes that any interference from the executive weakens Nigeria’s governance structure. It argued that this plan to provide housing for judges could further erode public trust in the justice system, making it more challenging to safeguard democracy.
Calls for Transparency and Accountability
The rights group reiterated its call for transparency and accountability within both the executive and judiciary branches. HURIWA continues to monitor the situation, urging the public to remain vigilant against any attempts to weaken the independence of Nigeria’s judiciary through undue influence.
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