By Lukman Olabiyi
The Campaign for Social Justice and Constitutional Democracy (CSJCD) has called for the immediate reassignment of the high-profile money laundering case involving Nigerian businesswoman and socialite, Aisha Achimugu.
The call comes in the wake of the suspension of Justice Inyang Ekwo by the National Judicial Council (NJC), a move that has stalled proceedings in the case, originally slated for trial at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
Achimugu is under investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over serious allegations, including conspiracy, obtaining money under false pretenses, money laundering, corruption, and unlawful acquisition of property.
Justice Ekwo, who had been presiding over the matter, had recently ordered Achimugu’s release, citing concerns about her right to a fair trial and adherence to due process.
However, his suspension by the NJC over alleged judicial misconduct has thrown the trial into uncertainty, halting further court actions.
Reacting to the development, CSJCD President, Festus Ogwuche, expressed concern over the impact of such procedural disruptions on Nigeria’s justice system and anti-corruption efforts.
“Justice Ekwo’s suspension should not serve as an excuse to delay justice. The people deserve timely, impartial rulings, particularly in cases that involve public trust and corruption. The judiciary must reassign this case without delay,” Ogwuche said.
He warned that any further delays could erode public confidence in the legal process and undermine the broader fight against corruption in Nigeria.
The CSJCD emphasized that the judiciary must act swiftly and transparently to ensure that justice is neither delayed nor denied.
The group also advocated for reforms in the judicial disciplinary process to prevent suspensions from stalling critical cases indefinitely.
“Nigeria’s judiciary must protect its independence and credibility, particularly when powerful individuals or high-stakes issues are involved,” Ogwuche added.
The group urged the NJC and judicial authorities to set clear timelines for investigating judicial misconduct and to take steps that preserve the integrity and efficiency of the courts.
The CSJCD reaffirmed its commitment to pushing for judicial reform, noting that fair and timely justice remains a cornerstone of Nigeria’s democratic framework.