Why Some Nigerian Judges Avoid Punishment Despite Petitions – Ex-Supreme Court Justice Mary Odili
Former Supreme Court Justice Mary Odili (Rtd.) has explained why some judges accused of misconduct or corruption are not sanctioned, saying many petitions submitted against judicial officers fail because they lack credible evidence.
Speaking during the South-East Regional Security Summit held at the International Conference Centre in Umuahia and organized by the Federal Ministry of Defence, Justice Odili said the National Judicial Council (NJC) only acts on petitions that are backed by sufficient facts and verifiable evidence.
According to her, allegations without supporting proof make it difficult for disciplinary action to be taken against any judge.
Weak Petitions Allow Accused Judges to Defend Themselves
Justice Odili stressed that the NJC does not ignore complaints against judicial officers. However, she noted that many petitions are too weak to establish wrongdoing, allowing the accused judges to successfully defend themselves.
She explained that every judge accused of misconduct is entitled to a fair hearing, making it necessary for petitioners to provide strong and convincing evidence.
“A lot of concerns have been raised in society about whether justice is what it should be.
“Some people have grievances against some judges. Please send your petitions to the National Judicial Council.
“The Chief Justice of Nigeria attends to every petition that comes against any judicial officer, but some petitions come in watery form without facts or the material support required for the petition to be properly handled.
“Remember, the judge you are accusing has a right to a fair hearing. So, the judge can clear himself of the allegations if the petition is weak and lacks the necessary facts,” she said.
Odili Urges Nigerians to Submit Evidence-Based Complaints
Justice Odili encouraged Nigerians who are dissatisfied with court decisions or believe a judge acted improperly to formally petition the National Judicial Council.
However, she emphasized that anyone filing a complaint must be prepared to provide concrete evidence to support every allegation.
According to her, credible petitions stand a far greater chance of leading to disciplinary action.
“Once your petitions are verified and they have the necessary credibility, that judge will receive the appropriate punishment,” she stated.
Judiciary Will Continue to Uphold Justice
Justice Odili also expressed confidence in Nigeria‘s judicial system, assuring citizens that the judiciary remains committed to promoting justice, peace, and national security.
She maintained that while misconduct by judicial officers will not be overlooked, disciplinary measures can only be taken when allegations are supported by credible and verifiable evidence.
