Renowned human rights advocate and legal scholar, Chidi Anselm Odinkalu, has published a thought-provoking essay entitled "Nigeria And The Fading Lights of Justice," shedding light on the continued erosion of the justice system in Nigeria and its profound implications for democracy and human rights.
In his latest work, Odinkalu examines the alarming trend of compromised judicial independence, the corruption of legal processes, and the diminishing trust Nigerians have in their institutions of justice. Drawing from historical and contemporary examples, Odinkalu argues that Nigeria’s judicial system, once regarded as a pillar of the country’s democratic structure, has slowly but steadily descended into a state of dysfunction.
Odinkalu emphasizes that the integrity of the judiciary is essential for ensuring the rule of law, upholding human rights, and maintaining the faith of the populace in the democratic process. However, over the years, he notes that political interference, inadequate funding, and systemic corruption have all contributed to a judiciary that is often slow, inefficient, and prone to manipulation.
“This erosion of judicial integrity,” Odinkalu writes, “has led to a situation where justice has become elusive for many Nigerians. For those at the margins of society, justice is often a privilege, not a right. And when justice is not served, the state undermines its own legitimacy.”
The essay also highlights the importance of holding those in power accountable and calls for a collective effort to restore the justice system to its rightful role in safeguarding human rights and democratic freedoms. Odinkalu stresses that the international community has a role to play in supporting Nigerian civil society and advocating for reforms that will bring transparency, fairness, and accountability to the judiciary.
Odinkalu’s voice in this piece joins a growing chorus of concerns regarding the state of Nigeria’s justice system and the broader implications for the future of the country. His words serve as both a warning and a call to action for all Nigerians, urging them to demand better and more equitable systems of justice for the future of the nation.