The United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC) Worldwide has called on the Nigerian Judiciary to draw inspiration from its international counterparts, where the public trusts the judiciary for fairness.
UNIEC emphasized that Nigeria’s judiciary should break free from its history of bowing to pressure from successive federal governments, compromising its integrity.
In a statement signed by Director General Bishop Justice Alpha Ikpeama and Director, Media and Publicity Prof. Obasi Igwe, UNIEC stressed that globally, judicial systems strive to earn public trust. Unfortunately, Nigeria’s judiciary falls short of this standard.
According to UNIEC, “it is mostly in the protection of the rights of the common man or weak masses side, and not in aligning with the state to oppress them that this confidence of the people in judicial system is earned.”
The council criticized Nigeria’s judiciary for appearing disinterested in earning public trust, citing instances such as the violent removal of Chief Justice Walter Onnoghen and the inability to enforce the release of citizens already set free.
Nnamdi Kanu has voiced dissatisfaction with Nigeria’s court system. UNIEC demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all political prisoners, including those from the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Yoruba Nation agitators, and other peaceful groups.
“Opinion don’t kill, and should be considered as free speech for, if we insist on stifling them there shall reach a time that everybody is treated any how by powerful people with no concern for consequences.”
UNIEC recommended releasing Nnamdi Kanu and other political prisoners, engaging with Nigerians, especially the youth, and addressing nationwide agitations.
