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ECP EXCLUSIVE
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Under Chief Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, the nation witnessed troubling instances of nepotism and disregard for judicial integrity.

Ariwoola’s tenure was marred by allegations of appointing family members to key positions in violation of the judicial code of conduct, further corroding the public's trust in a system already riddled with corruption. His actions, alongside those of former CJN Tanko Muhammad, who presided over some of the judiciary's darkest days, have solidified the courts' reputation as a marketplace for justice—available to the highest bidder.

The decay is systemic. Judges entrusted with upholding the law have transformed into brokers for the political elite, auctioning verdicts and influencing rulings for personal gain.

Political affiliations dictate judicial appointments, ensuring loyalty not to the constitution but to those who pay the price. From election petitions to high-profile criminal cases, the judiciary now stands accused of fostering impunity rather than delivering justice.

For activists like Dele Farotimi, the truth is no longer a matter of interpretation; it is a matter of survival.

His groundbreaking book, Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System, exposes these injustices, naming individuals and institutions that have betrayed their oaths for material gain. His recent persecution reflects the establishment's fear of a truth that refuses to be silenced.

Nepotism under Ariwoola is just one example of how deeply the rot runs.

Beyond personal appointments, the judiciary’s reputation has suffered from opaque decision-making, manipulated case files, and a refusal to hold itself accountable. Press restrictions and inadequate technology make it easy for such malpractices to flourish unnoticed.

As the public grows increasingly disillusioned, the judiciary becomes a tool of oppression rather than a defender of democracy.

The cries for reform are deafening. Judicial independence must be prioritized, with salaries adjusted to discourage bribery and strong monitoring systems implemented to hold corrupt officials accountable.

The Nigerian judiciary must choose: redeem itself or continue down this path of irrelevance and infamy.

Farotimi’s voice, representing a nation betrayed, resonates with hope and defiance.

“The truth,” he declares, “will not be silenced. It will rise, louder and stronger, until it drowns out the lies.”

For those who have traded justice for power, history is watching and it will not forget. The time for reckoning is now.