Concerns Over Rule of Law: Legal Practitioner Raises Alarm On Judiciary, NBA’s Role.

By Henry Ubus.

A legal practitioner, Chief Solomon Rugbare Aggreh Esq., has expressed deep concern over the state of Nigeria’s judiciary, alleging increasing political influence and warning of potential threats to the nation’s democracy.

In a strongly worded statement, Aggreh said he now aligns with the growing sentiment among many Nigerians that the legal system
particularly judges and lawyers may be contributing to the country’s challenges rather than resolving them. He accused some members of the judiciary of acting in favour of the ruling authorities instead of maintaining independence as required by law.

Referencing the continued detention and prosecution of former Central Bank of Nigeria Governor, Godwin Emefiele, Aggreh questioned the legal basis and prolonged nature of the proceedings. He also raised concerns over the treatment of former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, arguing that due legal processes, including the granting of bail pending trial, should be upheld in accordance with the rule of law.

The legal practitioner further queried the status of former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, asking whether legal actions are being selectively applied based on political affiliations.

Aggreh lamented what he described as the judiciary’s failure to distance itself from political interference, warning that such developments could erode public confidence in the justice system. He stressed that the judiciary remains the “last hope of the common man” and must therefore act with courage and impartiality.

He also called on the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) to rise to its responsibility of safeguarding the integrity of the legal profession. According to him, the association must not be seen as complicit or passive in the face of perceived injustices.

While clarifying that he is not a supporter of any of the individuals mentioned, Aggreh emphasized that his position is rooted in the defense of the rule of law and democratic principles.

He concluded by urging judges and the NBA to rise to the occasion in order to preserve Nigeria’s democracy and protect the rights and safety of legal practitioners across the country.

Aggreh, who hails from Udu in Delta State, warned that continued inaction could pose serious risks to democratic governance and the legal profession in Nigeria.