The Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), has condemned corruption, nepotism, and bias within the judicial system, warning that such practices erode public trust and undermine the rule of law.
Speaking at the 2024 Gavel International Annual Lecture in Lagos over the weekend, Fagbemi emphasized that the judiciary must uphold its integrity to remain the “last hope of the common man.”
In his keynote address titled “The Judiciary as the Last Hope of the Common Man: Media and Legal Perspectives,” Fagbemi lamented the detrimental impact of bribery and favoritism on judicial fairness and credibility. “Despite the judiciary’s role as an impartial body, it is not immune to corruption. Bribery, nepotism, and bias in judicial processes compromise the rule of law and public confidence,” he stated.
The AGF warned that when judges make decisions based on personal interests or external pressures, the justice system risks alienating citizens and fostering civil unrest. “A corrupt judiciary is a direct threat to public confidence. For the common man, a biased system feels rigged and inaccessible,” he added.
Barriers to justice
Fagbemi also highlighted systemic issues such as high legal fees, complex court procedures, and inadequate access to legal aid, which he said exacerbate inequality in accessing justice. He stressed that if the judiciary fails to create an equitable system, society may face dire consequences, including civil discontent and loss of faith in the legal framework.
While acknowledging the Nigerian judiciary’s notable achievements, Fagbemi noted lingering doubts about its ability to act as a true bastion of hope for the common man. He pointed to landmark cases where the judiciary upheld justice against significant challenges but urged for continuous improvement through collaboration with the executive, media, and citizens.
Adesina: Judiciary is everyone’s hope
Former Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) General Secretary, Mr. Dele Adesina (SAN), also addressed the gathering, calling the judiciary not only the last hope of the common man but of all members of society, regardless of status. “The judiciary safeguards against the abuse of power. It is not just the hope of the common man but of the big and small, young and old, rich and poor, and even the government itself,” Adesina stated.
Adesina cautioned against the media’s role in prejudicing judicial outcomes, urging responsible reporting to preserve public trust in legal proceedings. “Trial by media often leads to allegations of judicial compromise, which is unhealthy for our legal system,” he said.
A history of challenges
Publisher of Gavel International, Mr. Mustapha Ogunsakin, reflected on the judiciary’s longstanding challenges, including low remuneration for judges and declining morale among court staff. He urged stakeholders to prioritize reforms that address systemic weaknesses and restore the judiciary’s dignity.
The event, which brought together legal luminaries and media practitioners, featured notable figures such as human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN), legal expert Gbenga Oyebode, and former Minister of Health Prince Julius Adelusi-Adeluyi.
The call for accountability and collaboration resonated strongly among attendees, highlighting the urgency of addressing corruption and inefficiencies in Nigeria’s justice system to uphold the rule of law.
