KIULJ Volume. 4, Issue 2 (2022)

Contributor(s)

Dorcas A Akinpelu, LLM & Adeola O. Agboola, LLM
 

Keywords

Judiciary Impartiality Independence Separation of Powers Nigeria
 

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Judicial impartiality and independence in nigeria: a reality or a façade?

Abstract: Abstract Judicial Independence and Impartiality (JII) is rooted in the principle of fair trial; and as such, a sine qua non to a decent democracy, good governance, and accountability. JII entails that the decisions of judges are not influenced by any internal or external factors. Despite the separation of powers between all branches of government as enshrined in the 1999 Constitution, interference with the activities of the judiciary still exists in several areas including, appointment, remuneration, discipline, and removal of judges. The paper studied and evaluated existing laws and relevant works of literature that relate to JII of the judiciary in Nigeria, and finds that JII in Nigeria is a mere facade. The judiciary is vulnerable to influences from different sources, including the executive, politicians, businesses, and legislature. The paper recommends the first step towards JII is financial autonomy for the National Judicial Council (NJC). In addition, the suspension and removal of judges must be fair and carried out by an independent body.