Judicial Independence at Risk: Coalition Urges Action Against Political Influence in Benue

In a strong plea for judicial integrity, the Coalition of Civil Society for Transparency in Governance has called for immediate intervention to prevent the Benue State Judicial Service Commission (BSJSC) from embarking on a proposed strike action.
The coalition claimed that the strike is being manipulated by political figures pursuing personal interests, potentially undermining the delivery of justice in the state.
Executive Director of the coalition, Hajia Jaiyeola Mohammed, submitted a petition to the Chief Justice of Benue State and the Chairman of the National Judicial Council (NJC) where she raised alarms about the growing backlog of civil and criminal cases in the courts, stressing that a strike would only exacerbate existing delays. “Justice delayed is justice denied,” she asserted, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
The coalition’s concerns stem from a meeting held on October 21, 2024, where it was revealed that certain politicians are exerting undue pressure on the BSJSC. This interference, they argue, threatens the judiciary’s independence, which is essential for upholding justice for all citizens.
“Holding the entire state to ransom for the interests of a few is unacceptable,” Hajia Mohammed stated. She urged the judiciary to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter, warning that a strike could lead to significant injustice for those awaiting legal resolutions.
The coalition’s petition underscored the crucial role of the judiciary in maintaining order and fairness, especially during politically charged times. With the potential strike looming, concerns are mounting over access to justice in the region, affecting not just the legal system but also public confidence in governance.
As citizens and legal practitioners await a response, the coalition remains vigilant, advocating for a judiciary free from external influences and dedicated to its primary mission of serving the public interest. The implications of this situation are profound, emphasizing the need for an independent judiciary as the backbone of democracy in Nigeria.