NBA Warns Rivers Lawmakers Against Dragging Judiciary Into Political Crisis

Legal Community Opposes Interference in Judicial Affairs

The Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) has called on the Rivers State House of Assembly and other stakeholders involved in the state’s ongoing political crisis to refrain from involving the judiciary in their conflicts.

In a joint press statement issued on Tuesday, the eight NBA branches in Rivers State made it clear that they would not tolerate any disruption to the state’s justice system, including any attempt to shut down the courts. The statement was signed by Cordelia U. Eke, Hilda Desmond-lhekaire, Simple Dioha, Abiye A. Abo, Dr. N.A. Duson, Dr. Celestine N. Nwankwo, Tamunosiki A. Roberts, and Ekeledinichukwu Ordu.

The NBA’s reaction comes in response to a recent call by the Rivers State House of Assembly for the Department of State Security (DSS) to investigate the Chief Judge of the state, Justice Simeon Amadi, over allegations of age falsification.

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NBA Condemns Political Interference in Judiciary

Speaking on behalf of the chairmen of the eight NBA branches, Tamunosiki A. Roberts, Chairman of the Okrika Branch, strongly condemned the legislature’s actions, warning that the judiciary must not be drawn into the ongoing political power struggle between the state’s executive and legislative arms.

“We are aware of the existing political impasse between the Legislature and the Executive Arms of Government in Rivers State. However, we must caution that the judiciary should not be dragged into this ongoing political crisis. Such actions are not in the interest of peace and stability in the state,” Roberts stated.

He emphasized that an independent judiciary is essential to upholding democracy and maintaining peace in Rivers State.

Warning Against Repeat of 2014-2015 Judicial Shutdown

The NBA leadership recalled the 2014-2015 crisis when political interference led to the closure of courts in Rivers State. They insisted that such a situation must never be repeated, as it severely affected the administration of justice and the rights of citizens.

Roberts stressed that any allegations against judicial officers should be handled by the National Judicial Council (NJC), the only body authorized to investigate and take action against judges.

“The judiciary must not be intimidated or bullied by any other arm of government. We must follow the democratic process and the rule of law to resolve any issues in the state,” he said.

Call for Dialogue and Respect for the Rule of Law

The NBA further underscored that the judiciary remains the last hope of the common man and must be shielded from undue political interference. The association urged all parties to prioritize peace and work towards resolving their disputes in the best interests of Rivers State and Nigeria.

“We appeal to all parties to sheath their swords and genuinely seek peace in the interest of Rivers State and the economy of Nigeria,” the statement concluded.

As tensions continue in Rivers State, the NBA’s firm stance highlights the crucial role of the judiciary in maintaining law and order while cautioning political actors against actions that could destabilize the state’s legal and political systems.