Our judiciary is seriously threatened cjn onnoghen

A very timely and relevant topic!

Indeed, the recent controversy surrounding the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Walter Onnoghen, has raised serious concerns about the independence and integrity of the judiciary in Nigeria. Here are some reasons why:

  1. Unprecedented removal: Justice Onnoghen was suspended by President Muhammadu Buhari on January 25, 2019, just a few days before his trial was to begin on charges of non-declaration of assets. This move was seen as an unprecedented attack on the judiciary, as the CJN is the head of the judiciary and is supposed to be independent of the executive.
  2. Lack of due process: The suspension was carried out without following due process, as required by the Nigerian Constitution. The National Judicial Council (NJC) was not consulted, and the CJN was not given a fair hearing before being suspended.
  3. Implications for judicial independence: The suspension of the CJN has raised concerns about the ability of the judiciary to operate independently and impartially. If the head of the judiciary can be removed without due process, it sets a dangerous precedent for the removal of other judges.
  4. Undermining of the rule of law: The controversy has also raised concerns about the rule of law in Nigeria. The suspension of the CJN has been seen as an attempt to undermine the judiciary and the rule of law, which is a fundamental principle of democracy.
  5. International condemnation: The suspension of the CJN has been widely condemned by international organizations, including the United Nations, the African Union, and the European Union, which have called for the restoration of the CJN and the protection of judicial independence.

In conclusion, the controversy surrounding Justice Onnoghen has raised serious concerns about the independence and integrity of the judiciary in Nigeria. It is essential that the government and other stakeholders take steps to protect the judiciary and ensure that it operates independently and impartially, as required by the Constitution.