By Luminous Jannamike

ABUJA – The National Democratic Front (NDF) has raised concerns over the integrity of Nigeria’s judiciary, urging Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun to address alleged political interference undermining judicial processes.

The group warns that unchecked influence from political figures threatens not only the judiciary but also the stability of Rivers State and the administration of President Bola Tinubu.

In a statement signed by its Spokesperson Engr. Ikenna Ellis Ezenekwe, NDF condemned a series of conflicting and allegedly compromised court rulings, with a particular focus on judicial orders impacting the Rivers State crisis.

The group noted that recent court decisions, such as an order suspending monthly allocations to the state from the Central Bank of Nigeria, pose serious risks to essential services in health, education, and public safety, especially in rural communities.

NDF highlighted that the judiciary, traditionally regarded as the “last hope of the common man,” is at risk of becoming a tool for personal vendettas. It cited the ongoing legal disputes triggered by the defection of 27 Rivers State Assembly members from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), which has led to a string of conflicting rulings on the legitimacy of their seats. This, NDF claims, has contributed to escalating tension in Rivers State.

The civic group also drew attention to a recent wave of violence and property damage in Rivers State, allegedly tied to judicial rulings on local government election disputes. NDF cautioned that the judiciary’s current trajectory could result in a resurgence of unrest reminiscent of the Niger Delta insurgency, potentially destabilizing the volatile region.

Stressing the wider implications, NDF warned that if the judiciary continues to be perceived as compromised, public confidence in Nigeria’s courts will further erode, with potential repercussions for national stability. The group called on Justice Kekere-Ekun to restore public trust by ensuring that judicial rulings are free from political influence and uphold the rule of law.

Asserting the gravity of the situation, NDF cautioned that inaction could pave the way for economic and political instability in Rivers State and beyond, urging a decisive stand to protect the independence of Nigeria’s judiciary and prevent further deterioration of its credibility.

The statement read, “The Nigerian judiciary’s integrity is at stake, and continued exploitation will have severe repercussions, not only for Rivers State but for the nation as a whole.

“The judiciary, as the ‘last hope of the common man,’ cannot afford to be reduced to a tool for personal vendettas.

“It’s disturbing that such an order was issued on a matter still under deliberation.”

“It’s scandalous that court orders, seemingly bought and paid for, could halt the funds essential to basic services in Rivers State.

“This is a pathway to anarchy.”

“The people of Rivers deserve a judiciary that serves justice, not political whims.

“Your Lordship, the soul of the Nigerian judiciary is at stake. Do not allow political marauders to reduce the last bastion of the common man’s hope to a mere pawn on a chessboard of ambition. You must halt this desecration of our justice system. Stand with the people, protect our democracy, and let the Nigerian judiciary emerge unscathed from these tribulations.”