From Okwe Obi, Abuja
A report released by the Citizens’ Gavel has scored the Nigerian judiciary low on credibility which is as a result of corruption.
Entitled: ‘Assessing Judicial Integrity, Challenges and Recommendations for Reforms in Nigeria,’ the survey revealed that an overwhelming 92% of participants expressed serious reservations about the credibility of Nigeria’s judicial system.
The research conducted by Olanipekun Nelson, Atiku Samuel, Ajibade Oluwafemi, Ariyo Mofolarin ‘Tosin, Isaac Sylvester Agih and Marvelous Monday, was released at the weekend in Abuja.
According to the report, “the results of a recent online opinion poll, which garnered responses from 119 Nigerian citizens, have shed light on deep-rooted concerns regarding the integrity and fairness of the Judiciary.
“The survey revealed that an overwhelming 92 per cent of participants expressed serious reservations about the credibility of Nigeria’s judicial system.
“This pervasive sentiment points to widespread perceptions of corruption and bias within the Judiciary eroding public trust and confidence in its ability to administer justice fairly in contrast, a mere 5 percent of respondents indicated trust in the Judiciary’s capacity to uphold principles of fairness and transparency. This significant disparity between the overwhelming majority expressing distrust and the minority expressing trust underscores the formidable challenge confronting the Nigerian judiciary in restoring its credibility.”
Furthermore, the poll disclosed that a noteworthy 3 percent of respondents remained unsure about their stance, suggesting a pervasive ambivalence among certain segments of the population.
“This ambivalence highlights the intricate nature of public perceptions surrounding the Judiciary, with a portion of the populace neither entirely distrusting nor fully endorsing its integrity.
“These findings underscore the urgent necessity for comprehensive reforms aimed at addressing the systemic issues afflicting the Nigerian judiciary, prioritising transparency, accountability, and adherence to the rule of law is imperative to rebuild public confidence and ensure equitable access to justice for all Nigerians.
“Only through concerted efforts to combat corruption and enhance transparency can the Judiciary fulfill its constitutional mandate and regain the trust of the Nigerian people.”