‘Democracy Is Impossible In Africa Without Judicial Accountability’

Founder of the Nation of Justice, a non-governmental organisation, Jyde Adelakun, has explained how bringing accountability to the judiciary in Africa can lead to genuine democracy.

Adelakun, who spoke with journalists in Lagos, noted that all Nigerians must be part of the solution and speak out to effect change by holding the bull by its horns.

He added that Nigerians must demand accountability.

Adelakun stated that the event was held to raise awareness of civic education and to support Muslims as they say goodbye to the holy month of Ramadan.

He noted that the organisation prides itself on being a vanguard of accountability in public institutions like the judiciary, upholding democratic principles while engaging citizens through civic education.

Adelakun further noted that the nonprofit organisation has commenced humanitarian support for vulnerable citizens, especially women, people with disabilities, the homeless and children.

He further added that the aid comes at a time when the West African nation is facing a deepening economic crisis and a policy shift that critics have described as unfavourable to the country’s poor.

Adelakun further said that the organisation is also aimed at enlightening people about the provisions of the law, their constitutional rights and duties, so that they know their place in the nation’s existence and in the societies where they live.

“The birth of the Nation of Justice is a result of my years of experience and encounters that I have faced, which other Nigerians and different nationalities face in international troubles, particularly the stigma that has been placed upon Nigerians when you have a Nigerian passport or when they know you’re from Nigeria.

“Based on this experience, I wrote a letter to the United Nations Secretary-General, starting from 2022, which I continue to do repeatedly. I addressed the UN chief on how Nigerians have been treated and stigmatised with what’s going on.

“So basically, the birth of the organisation is based on my own personal experiences and those of other Nigerians during their international travels or cross-border activities.

“Moreover, most of these countries have offices in New York, but they call themselves the United Nations when, in actuality, they are not united in the way they treat one another. So, I made a complaint on behalf of Nigeria, to not only the UN, but also other international bodies, highlighting that Nigerians have been victimised in one way or another when travelling to Europe and some other places.’’