The confirmation of Justice Olukayode Ariwoola as the new Chief Justice of Nigeria, CJN, by the Senate without intrigues or hitches is a sign that the Muhammadu Buhari government might be ready for the Judiciary to regain its autonomous footing.

We recall the wars of nerves that the executive branch waged in ensuring the ouster of CJN Walter Onnoghen, the appointment of CJN Tanko Mohammed, as well as the “sting operations” on some judges in October 2016. These harassments of the Justices were done with motives known only to those directing them.

CJN Ariwoola now has a free atmosphere to face the problems of our troubled Third Arm of Government, especially the subjects raised by the Supreme Court Justices earlier this year concerning the welfare and conditions of service of Judges.

In June this year, 14 Justices of the Supreme Court took the unprecedented step in the apex Court’s 58-year history of addressing a joint petition to former CJN Tanko Mohammed which leaked out to the public. Apparently, the Judges had to go this extra mile because the departed CJN had failed to respond to their needs.

They complained of lack of vehicles for Supreme Court Judges, poor power supply, and epileptic internet access to their offices, residences and chambers. They also lamented their poor remuneration upon which no judicial officer could survive without being corrupt.

Justice Ariwoola, who was one of the petitioners, should now walk his talk. His first priority is to fight for the autonomy of the Judiciary, especially the apex court. The welfare of personnel of the Third Arm of Government must be upgraded to rival those of the Legislative and Executive branches.

Supreme Court Judges should enjoy the same remuneration packages that Ministers and National Assembly members do. All cadres of Judiciary workers should be comfortably provided for to enable them serve with integrity. One cannot expect hungry judges who cannot pay their rents or children’s school fees to remain above board in the performance of their duties.

The Judiciary’s funding must be separated from the administrative or political control of other arms, especially the Executive at federal and state levels. Our Judiciary must be freed from having to dance to the tune of the proverbial piper. Justice Ariwoola should lead the fight for the total independence of the Judiciary. He can be sure of the support of well-meaning Nigerians.

We strongly believe that only a well-funded and independent Judiciary is capable of adequately playing its constitutional role in ensuring justice in the forthcoming elections and beyond. Some Nigerian judges are generally perceived locally and internationally as liable to sell judgements to the highest bidders. It is Ariwoola’s duty to clean up the Judiciary and encourage good quality lawyers of integrity to join the Bench. 

Nigeria cannot develop with a rotten Judiciary.