The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA), a prominent pro-democracy group, has voiced its disappointment with the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun, accusing her of echoing the rhetoric of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
HURIWA expressed concern over her comments, which they claim align with the agenda of the APC-led administration.
In a statement issued by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA criticized Justice Kekere-Ekun for comments made during the launch of 40 housing units for judicial officers in Abuja.
The rights group argued that the CJN, instead of maintaining neutrality, appeared to endorse the administration’s policies, particularly in her remarks about the mental and emotional well-being of judicial officers being tied to their living conditions.
HURIWA described the provision of luxury housing to judges by the federal government as a “systematic bribery” and a violation of the constitutional separation of powers.
The group expressed concern that these housing projects, funded by the government, could undermine judicial independence.
HURIWA further argued that the judiciary, which is supposed to be financially autonomous, should not rely on the executive for lavish benefits, warning that this could lead to partiality in cases involving the government.
In its statement, HURIWA also raised fears about the potential bias of judicial officers in future cases against the government, citing the housing project as an attempt to “pocket” the judiciary.
The group referenced the Federal Government’s decision to revoke a German construction company’s land ownership to provide the land for the new judges’ quarters, questioning the implications for judicial independence.
HURIWA urged Justice Kekere-Ekun to reflect on the fundamental principle of judicial independence, warning that the judiciary must not become beholden to the executive branch of government.
The group emphasized the need for the judiciary to remain impartial and free from political influence, citing global authorities on the importance of maintaining judicial independence in a functioning democracy.