Justice in Nigeria Now a Purchasable Commodity, Warns Sultan of Sokoto
Byline: Justice Desk, IDNN
Sultan Raises Alarm Over Justice in Nigeria
The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Abubakar, has warned that justice in Nigeria is being undermined by corruption and inequality, leaving the poor as perpetual victims.
“Today, justice is increasingly becoming a purchasable commodity. The poor are victims, while the rich commit all manner of crimes and walk free,” Abubakar said in his keynote address at the Nigerian Bar Association’s Annual General Conference in Enugu.
Call to Lawyers and Judiciary
The Sultan urged Nigerian lawyers and judges to resist political interference and corruption, saying only a firm commitment to rule of law can rebuild trust in the justice system.
“If law ensures everyone, including those in power, is subject to accountability, then we address the very core of Nigeria’s governance crisis,” he said.
He stressed that lawyers must serve as defenders of truth and equity, not enablers of prebendal politics.
NBA Theme: “Stand Out and Stand Tall”
The conference, themed Stand Out and Stand Tall, brought together judges, senior lawyers, and policymakers. Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu, in his remarks, described law as the “conscience of the nation,” citing reforms in his state such as digitised courtrooms, expanded access to pro bono services, and financial autonomy for the judiciary.
He said: “We are not only courtroom advocates, but also defenders of truth, architects of peace, and champions of equity.”
Urgent Call for Reform
Participants agreed that justice in Nigeria cannot be left at the mercy of corruption and political manipulation. Rising litigation costs and executive interference were highlighted as major threats to judicial independence.
The Sultan concluded: “If justice continues to be purchasable, then Nigeria’s democracy and governance are at risk.”.
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