The Chief Justice of Nigeria, CJN, Justice Mahmud Mohammed, yesterday sounded the alarm over plot by some desperate politicians to use the judiciary to truncate the nation’s democracy.
He, however, assured Nigerians that the judicial arm of government under his watch would not succumb to the manipulation of politicians to truncate democracy in the country.
The CJN was speaking in Abuja at the swearing-in of Justice Ishaq Bello as the acting Chief Judge, CJ, of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT. Justice Bello replaces Justice Ibrahim Bukar who on the same day retired as the FCT CJ after attaining the mandatory retirement age of 65 years.
Justice Mohammed noted that the leadership of the judiciary was aware of plans by some “unpatriotic citizens” to use the courts to stop the electoral process, but warned judges not to be used as tools by desperate politicians.
According to him, “Permit me to use this opportunity to again assure all Nigerians that under my leadership, the judiciary remains resolute and committed to do its constitutional duty during this election period.
“We will not be swayed or distracted from the course of justice in any election matter that is before or comes before the justice system.
“It bears reminding to all heads of courts that you are primarily responsible for the preservation of our nation’s democracy.
“I strongly advise all judicial officers not to allow any party or politician to use the courts to truncate our nation’s democracy.
“We are aware that some unpatriotic citizens may wish to use the courts to stop the electoral process and I wish to warn in clear terms that we shall not be used as a tool for the breakdown of law and order in our beloved country.”
While urging Justice Bello to work hard and improve on the pace of justice dispensation in the court, the CJN said, “I note with particular concern the number of corruption cases that are pending before the FCT High Courts and the number that have been returned by the Supreme Court to the trial courts.
“It keeps reminding that posterity does not wear a human face in its judgment. I counsel you to ensure that your work remains like sterling silver that becomes more valuable with age.
“I therefore urge you to be proactive in seeking out ways to improve justice delivery especially as it pertains to case disposal rate in the FCT High Court of Justice.
“Hence, I urge you to work cooperatively with the other heads of court and indeed all judicial officers in order to ensure cohesion and synergy in your resolve to uphold the dignity of the judiciary,” he said.
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