President Bola Tinubu has issued a stark warning about the dangers facing Nigeria if the judiciary fails to maintain its integrity and eliminate misconduct from its practices.
President's Dire Warning to the Judiciary
The Nigerian leader delivered his powerful message while addressing the 2025 Conference of All Nigerian Judges of Superior Courts of Records on Monday, November 17. President Tinubu emphasized that justice must never be for sale in Nigeria, stating clearly that when the judiciary fails, the entire nation faces collapse.
Through a statement shared by his media aide, Bayo Onanuga, the president explained that governance loses all integrity and democracy's foundation disappears when justice becomes compromised. His statement contained the crucial warning: "No amount of reform can succeed if integrity is compromised. Justice must never be for sale."
Nigerians React to Presidential Address
The president's strong statements have generated significant reactions from Nigerians across social media platforms, with many citizens expressing both support and skepticism.
One social media user identified as Loyalty questioned the practice of building houses for judges using taxpayers' money, suggesting this creates conflicts of interest. Another user with the handle @V2_NLT challenged President Tinubu to back his words with action by demanding electoral reforms immediately rather than waiting until after the 2027 elections.
Ogor Peters specifically referenced the luxury houses planned for judiciary members, asking if the federal government would stop this practice. Meanwhile, Luwin called for comprehensive judicial reform to address issues like delayed cases and judgments based on technicalities rather than facts.
Broader Context of Judicial Concerns
The president's address comes amid ongoing concerns about Nigeria's judicial system. Former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo recently highlighted similar issues during a lecture at Kwara State University in October.
Professor Osinbajo noted that Nigeria's court system often operates more on technicalities than on delivering substantial justice. He emphasized that any justice system's primary purpose should be serving the people, unlike Nigeria's current system that glorifies procedural formalities over genuine justice delivery.
President Tinubu's strong stance underscores the critical role the judiciary plays in maintaining Nigeria's democratic stability and national cohesion.
