A prominent figure in the Nigerian human rights sector criticized the attendance of a Supreme Court Justice and a Federal Capital Territory Minister at a special convocation event at the University of Calabar. The individual expressed concerns about the implications for judicial neutrality, particularly due to perceived close interactions between political figures and members of the judiciary.
Referring to established judicial conduct guidelines, the speaker highlighted the importance of judges maintaining a distance from frequent litigants, such as government officials, to avoid any perception of bias. They referenced previous judicial rulings and statements emphasizing the need for judges to refrain from political involvement to uphold democracy and the integrity of the legal system.
Furthermore, the speaker pointed out specific instances, including the conferral of an honorary degree and a recent court decision, that raised questions about potential conflicts of interest. The overall sentiment conveyed was one of concern over the impact of such interactions on judicial independence and the democratic process.
The individual criticized the behavior of those involved, describing it as disrespectful and damaging to the reputation of the judiciary. The overarching message underscored the importance of upholding the principles of impartiality and accountability within the legal system.