Rivers: Sanction judges issuing conflicting orders – HURIWA to NJC

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria, HURIWA, has expressed deep concern over the increasing issuance of frivolous court orders and ex parte injunctions by judges, particularly in politically sensitive cases.

The group cited the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State as an example,

HURIWA urged the National Judicial Council, NJC, to immediately sanction judicial officers involved in the actions, warning that such practices could jeopardize Nigeria’s constitutional democracy.

The political turmoil in Rivers State was heightened by conflicting court orders from various judges ahead of the October 5 Local Government elections in the state.

HURIWA said this mirrors Nigeria’s troubled political history and threatens the stability of its democratic processes.

In recent weeks, Rivers State has seen a legal battle, with judges from Federal High Courts in Abuja issuing restraining orders that appear to destabilize the duly elected administration in the State.

HURIWA highlighted that many of these orders were tainted by allegations of bribery, which, according to the group, further eroded public trust in the judiciary.

HURIWA’s National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, in a statement, warned that the judiciary was at risk of becoming a tool for political manipulation, with corrupt judges contributing to the erosion of democratic order.

“The judiciary must not be reduced to a pawn in political games,” Onwubiko stated.

“There is a disturbing trend of judges, particularly in the Federal Capital Territory, issuing reckless court orders aimed at destabilizing legitimate governments and undermining democratic processes,” he added.

HURIWA called on the NJC, the body responsible for regulating the conduct of judges, to take swift and decisive action to address the growing corruption within the judiciary.

The association insisted that judicial officers or lawyers found complicity in issuing or facilitating dubious court orders must face serious consequences.

“The NJC must rise to its responsibilities and ensure that corrupt judges are held accountable. This issue goes beyond Rivers State—it’s about the survival of our democracy.

“Judges who issue orders in exchange for bribes are not only breaking the law but also undermining the will of the people,” HURIWA emphasized.

HURIWA also urged the NJC to establish mechanisms to monitor the issuance of ex parte and restraining orders in politically charged cases.

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