Social critic and human rights activist Aisha Yesufu has ignited a firestorm of debate, accusing the Nigerian judiciary of being a mere “toy” in the hands of corrupt politicians.
Her remarks comes after the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Justice Olukayode Ariwoola urged judges to remain steadfast in their decisions, adding that the judiciary is unmoved by “mob sentiments”.
Yesufu’s scathing critique stems from recent controversies surrounding the judiciary’s handling of election-related cases.
She contends that the judiciary has consistently sided with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), nullifying the elections of opposition candidates and perpetuating a sense of bias.
The CJN’s statement, made during the opening of the 2023/2024 legal year, emphasised the importance of judicial independence and adherence to the law.
He cautioned judges against succumbing to undue pressure, asserting that “public opinion, sentiments, or emotions” should not sway their decisions.
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Reacting, Yesufu who was unequivocal with her submission, asserted that the judiciary’s actions speak louder than words.
She lambasted the institution as “spineless, greedy, and controlled,” accusing it of being complicit in the manipulation of elections by the ruling party.
“The judiciary is the mob. A spineless, greedy and controlled one at that. A mere toy in the hands of corrupt politicians who have not hidden the fact that they are the masters of the judiciary. The CJN can fool himself all he wants, he knows it, the politicians know and flaunt it and the people know it,” she said.