Mohammed Shosanya
The Coalition Against Corruption and Injustice (CACI) in Nigeria has raised concerns over alleged plots by some politicians to compromise the judiciary’s independence.
Its action is against the backdrop of call by a group, which recently sought the removal of Justices John Tsoho, Peter Lifu, and James Omotosho if the Federal High Court Abuja.
In a statement signed by Prince Livinus Itodo, the Coalition accused a Governor of backing a group of blackmailers to bully the judiciary and undermine its integrity.
Itodo described such politicians as power-drunk, who are abusing their offices in a bid to silence opposition and maintain a stranglehold on power.
According to Itodo, the accusations against Justices Tsoho, Lifu, and Omotosho are unfounded and lack concrete evidence.
Itodo described the judiciary as a sacred institution, essential to Nigeria’s democratic system, adding that its independence and impartiality are non-negotiable.
“The recent call by the Joint Action for Democracy (JAD) to remove Justice John Tsoho, Justice Peter Lifu, and Justice James Omotosho from office is a thinly veiled attempt to undermine the judiciary’s integrity.
“This move, allegedly backed by a certain Governor is a blatant intimidation tactic aimed at compromising the independence of our judicial system.
“The Governor’s involvement in this scheme is particularly concerning, given his history of prioritizing personal interests over the welfare of people of the state.
“His actions suggest a focus on personal agendas rather than the well-being of his people. It has become evident that the Governor is power-drunk, abusing his office to silence opposition and maintain a stranglehold on power.
“The JAD’s accusations against Justices Tsoho, Lifu, and Omotosho are unfounded and lack concrete evidence. This smear campaign seeks to erode public trust in the judiciary, creating an environment conducive to corruption and injustice. We must not allow this to happen” Itodo stated.
The group noted that judiciary is a sacred institution, essential to our democratic system, adding that its independence and impartiality are non-negotiable.
“If we allow these politicians’ tactics to succeed, the consequences will be far-reaching.The judiciary’s integrity will be compromised, leading to widespread disillusionment with the justice system. The independence of the judiciary is crucial to our democratic system.
“Compromising this independence will have devastating consequences for our democracy. A compromised judiciary will create an environment where injustice thrives, and the rule of law is disregarded.
“JAD’s actions are not about seeking justice or accountability but rather about silencing the judiciary and advancing a selfish agenda.
“The tactics of these serial blackmailers to bully the judiciary are reprehensible and will not be tolerated” the group warned.
The Coalition commended the judiciary for its commitment to justice and fairness despite the relentless attacks on judges.
Itodo called on the National Judicial Council (NJC) to investigate these allegations and protect the judiciary’s integrity.
“The legal community must stand united against these intimidation tactics. Nigerians must demand accountability and transparency from those seeking to undermine our judiciary.
“We will not stand idly by, while some politicians attempt to compromise the country’s judiciary.We therefore urge all Nigerians to join us in defending the integrity of our judicial system.
“JAD must cease their attacks on the judiciary. The Nigerian people will not be swayed by their baseless accusations and intimidation tactics” the Coalition stated.
