Judicial independence bedrock of democracy —S’Court Justice

Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, Mohammed Baba Idris, has declared that judicial independence remains the bedrock of democracy, warning that any attempt to subject the judiciary to political, financial or institutional influence could undermine constitutional governance and the rule of law.

Justice Idris made the assertion on Monday while delivering a lecture titled: ‘The repositioning for effective justice delivery and democratic stability in Nigeria’, at the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Benin Branch Law Week in Benin, Edo State.

Idris described an independent judiciary as the cornerstone upon which democratic institutions and constitutional order are built, stressing that courts must remain free from external pressures to effectively discharge their constitutional responsibilities.

He said that a judiciary that is subjected to undue influence cannot function as an impartial arbiter between citizens and the state, thereby weakening public confidence in democratic institutions.

“A judiciary that is demonstrably independent is essential to preserving constitutional balance, sustaining democratic governance and inspiring public trust in the justice system,” he stated.

He also advocated transparent and merit-based judicial appointments, promotions and disciplinary procedures, insisting that the processes must remain insulated from partisan interests and political interference.

The jurist maintained that strengthening judicial independence will enhance effective justice delivery and contribute significantly to democratic stability in the country.

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In his remarks, the Chief Judge of Edo State, Justice Daniel Okungbowa, described the Law Week theme: ‘Reforming today, securing tomorrow’, as apt and relevant to the challenges confronting the nation’s justice sector.

Justice Okungbowa observed that the future of Nigeria’s judicial system depends largely on the decisions being taken today and the reforms stakeholders are willing to embrace.

“The future of our justice system depends on the decisions we take today and even on those actions we refuse to take. Reform is not a sign of weakness; it is a demonstration of strength and foresight,” he said.

Also, chairman of the NBA, Benin branch, Mr. Idemudia Osifo, called on the government at all levels of to treat judicial independence as a constitutional imperative rather than a political slogan.

He stressed that respect for the rule of law remains the foundation of democratic governance and the credibility of the nation’s justice system.

He added that the integrity and effectiveness of the judiciary depend significantly on the willingness of the executive arm of government to obey the law and honour judicial pronouncements.