The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), has identified bribery, nepotism, and bias as the factors that compromised the fairness and credibility of the administration of the justice system in Nigeria.
Fagbemi insisted that when judges accept bribes, make decisions based on personal interests, or show favouritism due to political or social pressures, it significantly undermines the rule of law.
The AGF made these remarks at The Gavel International Annual Lecture 2024, titled “The Judiciary as the Last Hope of the Common Man: Media and Legal Perspectives,” held in Lagos.
Represented at the event by Prof Olukayode Olatoke, he also pointed out that despite the judiciary’s role as an impartial body, it is not immune to corruption and that these corrupt practices damage public confidence in the system.
“The presence of corruption within the judiciary creates a perception of a rigged system, particularly for the common man who struggles to access justice,” Fagbemi said.
He also stated that while much has been achieved, work still needs to be done. “Together with the judiciary, the executive, the media, and the citizens—we can build a Nigeria where every individual, regardless of status or station, can find justice, hope, and dignity.”
Prince Fagbemi also disclosed that justice sector reforms have been central to his objectives in the Ministry of Justice and that he is prioritising the efficiency, independence, and accessibility of the judiciary.
The AGF further called for collaboration among the judiciary, executive, media, and citizens to create an environment in Nigeria where every individual can seek justice, hope, and dignity, regardless of their status.
The lecturer, former General Secretary of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Dele Adesina (SAN), expressed his commitment to defending and advancing the judiciary at all times.
“I submit that the media must not make any comments that could prejudice a fair trial. This is without prejudice to their duty to hold the government accountable. Anything that undermines public confidence in the judiciary is detrimental to the judicial process,” he said.
The event’s chairman, Prince Julius Adelusi-Adeluyi, called on Nigerian lawyers and the judiciary to spearhead the country’s transformation, emphasising the need for boldness and integrity in upholding the rule of law.
The Chairman also challenged legal professionals to implement dynamic solutions to Nigeria’s challenges, warning against empty rhetoric.
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