Kuni Tyessi in Abuja
Citizens’ Gavel, a non-profit organization has called for the active involvement of Nigerians in the ongoing judicial appointment process, noting that the integrity of the nation’s democracy is not solely determined by electoral outcomes but equally by the judicious selection of judicial officers.
According to the group, the appointment of 12 out of 24 nominated judges is a crucial phase for the nation’s democratic journey as more people will be vested with powers to uphold justice, maintain the rule of law, interpret laws, review the constitution, resolve disputes and protect the rights of ordinary Nigerians, all of which directly impact the lives of all.
In a statement signed by its head of communications, Nelson Olanipekun, the organization insisted on the necessity of basing judicial selections on merit and established integrity to arrest the current degradation and fortify the foundations of justice in the nation.
He said to this effect, the organization invites the Nigerian public to exercise their civic duty by thoroughly examining each individual’s profile. Concerns regarding any appointee’s character, conduct, or impartiality should be formally addressed through a petition to the National Judicial Council (NJC).
Also, with respect to judicial accountability, the group has condemned the prevalence of decadence in the Nigerian Judicial System, which has been noticeable in recent years.
“To nip this decadence in the bud, Citizens’ Gavel urgently beckons the people of Nigeria to exercise their democratic right to a transparent and accountable process in appointing judges.
“The NGO insists on the necessity of basing judicial selections on merit and established integrity to arrest the current degradation and fortify the foundations of justice in the nation.
“Moving forward, the group urges the Nigerian judiciary to dispense equal consequences for action, such that everyone plays by the same rules stipulated by the constitution, regardless of status, tribe, religion or name, just as is obtainable in developed, democratic countries.”
Leading the charge for judicial accountability, Citizens’ Gavel has so far meticulously compiled and presented the profiles of the identified twenty-four appointees.
