The Ijaw Women Advocates for Justice have called for restraint in public discourse surrounding the ongoing trial of former Petroleum Minister, Diezani Alison-Madueke, warning against what they describe as a growing trend of trying the case in the court of public opinion.
Addressing a press conference in Abuja on Monday, the group expressed concern over increasing attempts to shape public perception through selective narratives and media sensationalism, insisting that justice must not be reduced to headlines or public sentiment.
Speaking on behalf of the group, Timiebi Koripamo-Agary stressed that the integrity of the judicial process must be preserved, noting that ongoing legal proceedings in the United Kingdom should be allowed to run their full course without external pressure or distortion.
“Stop trying Diezani in the court of public opinion while the real legal process continues,” she said, emphasising that only a competent court of law has the authority to determine guilt or innocence.
The group maintained that principles of due process, fair hearing, and presumption of innocence remain fundamental to any credible justice system, warning that premature conclusions driven by media narratives could undermine these safeguards.
They further cautioned that sustained commentary and sensational reporting risk creating bias and misrepresenting facts, thereby eroding public confidence in judicial outcomes.
According to the advocates, the responsibility of evaluating evidence and delivering judgment rests solely with the court, not with public opinion or media commentary.
The group urged journalists, commentators, and the general public to exercise restraint and professionalism, particularly in cases under active judicial consideration.
They also called on stakeholders to respect the independence of the UK legal system and avoid actions capable of influencing or pre-empting the outcome of the trial.
Reaffirming their position, the Ijaw women insisted that justice must remain anchored on law, evidence, and established legal procedures—not emotions or speculative narratives.
They concluded with a strong appeal for adherence to due process, stressing that fairness in judicial proceedings is best preserved when courts are allowed to operate free from external interference.
Ijaw women warn against media trial of Diezani case
