Criticism mounts against the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) for releasing a roster of candidates considered for appointment as Judges of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The published list invited public feedback, yet detractors accuse the selection process of nepotism and opacity.
Human rights activist Chidi Odinkalu voiced his concerns on X (formerly known as Twitter), asserting that the list “illustrates everything wrong with the Nigerian judiciary.” He highlighted various instances where candidates seem to have significant familial connections to current or former high-ranking judicial figures.
Among the issues raised by Odinkalu:
Candidate No. 7, Buetnaan, is identified as the daughter of the President of the Court of Appeal, who assumed a judgeship in Plateau State in 2021, sparking concerns about the transparency of her potential transfer.
Candidate No. 11 is revealed to be a relative by marriage of Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike, who appointed her as a Senior Magistrate last year, implying possible reciprocal arrangements.
Among the listed candidates are the daughters of the former and current Chief Judges of the FCT High Court (No. 5 and No. 9, respectively).
Candidate No. 10 is identified as the daughter-in-law of the current Chief Justice of Nigeria, whereas No. 12 is the daughter of his immediate predecessor.
Odinkalu criticized the NBA for facilitating what he deemed as “self-serving nominations” by releasing the list on a Friday during the Ramadan and Lenten periods, allowing the public only two working days to offer feedback.
“When I speak about filialization & genitalization of the Nigerian judiciary, this is an exhibit in that case,” Odinkalu tweeted, referring to the alleged nepotism and favoritism in judicial appointments.
The activist went on to condemn the “courage” needed for what he called a “perversion of high judicial office,” wondering why judicial roles were being treated as “family heirlooms or a genital insemination” instead of prioritizing the delivery of justice.
-Advertisement-
Grab our latest Magazine, "Chief Wole Olanipekun, CFR, SAN, A man of wide horizons and deep intentions". Get your order fast and stress free.
For more details about Newswire Law&Events Magazine, kindly reach out to us on 08039218044, 09070309355. Email: newswiremagazine@yahoo.co.uk. You will be glad you did
