NBA Petition to probe claims of judicial interference linked to Rabiu Kwankwaso aims to protect Nigeria’s judiciary and uphold public trust

The National Executive Council of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has resolved to formally petition the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant security agencies over public statements suggesting interference with the judiciary, particularly comments linked to former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso.

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The decision followed NEC discussions prompted by widespread public concern over remarks reportedly made by Kwankwaso regarding his involvement with Supreme Court justices during proceedings connected to the 2019 Kano governorship election.

The NBA emphasised that the petition targets the claims themselves and does not imply guilt on the part of any individual.

The council said the move is intended to ensure allegations of this magnitude are subjected to “thorough, impartial, and professional investigation.”

NEC warned that statements suggesting undue influence on judicial processes, “whether made directly or by implication, are capable of undermining public confidence in the independence of the judiciary and the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral justice system.”

The council further stressed that the petition will cover not only comments attributed to Kwankwaso but also “any other individual who has made statements, admissions, or public comments suggesting that they influenced, attempted to influence, or had improper access to judicial officers or judicial decision-making processes.”

“Where such claims are false, they are dangerous and corrosive to constitutional democracy and must be firmly repudiated. Where they are true, accountability must follow in accordance with the law,” NEC stated.

Consequently, the NBA mandated its National Executive Committee to prepare and submit a formal petition requesting a comprehensive investigation into all allegations of judicial interference.

The move is aimed at protecting judicial independence and restoring public confidence in the justice system.

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The NBA reaffirmed its commitment to the rule of law, asserting that no individual, regardless of political standing, should make claims that cast doubt on the integrity of the courts without lawful scrutiny.