Top Stories

Nigerian Judges Who Declared Uzodinma As Imo Governor Reportedly Denied Visas To Attend U.S Conference

Former Cross River Governor, Donald Duke on Wednesday said the United States government has sanctioned some Justices in Nigeria.

Duke made the comment in Lagos at the launch of a memoir of retired Justice Charles Archibong. He served on the bench of the Federal High Court from 2002 to 2013.

Advertisement

The politician told the gathering that America slammed a visa ban on the Justices who delivered a verdict that made “a candidate who came fourth the winner of an election”.

Duke said their application to attend a Judges’ Conference in the U.S. were rejected, though their aides were given visas.

Advertisement

Legal luminary Olisa Agbakoka observed that the National Judicial Council, NJC, is controlled by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, CJN, who appoints 50 of its 60 members.

The Senior Advocate of Nigeria said the conditions of service of the judiciary are terrible, a situation that could make officials vulnerable.

Advertisement

“We should not put our judges in a position where they can be tempted,” Agbakoba warned in his remarks.

A former member of the House of Representatives, Abdul Oroh, while sharing his experience when he served on the Judiciary Committee, said some SANs are responsible for corrupting judges.

Advertisement

Duke’s information brings to mind the Supreme Court’s declaration of Hope Uzodinma of the All Progressives Congress, APC, as winner of the 2019 governorship election in Imo after finishing as third-runner up.

The judgement, which removed Emeka Ihedioha of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, as Governor was delivered on January 14 2020 by Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun.

Advertisement

The panel included Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad, Justice Nwali Sylvester Ngwuta, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, Justice Amiru Sanusi, Justice Amina Adamu Augie and Justice Uwani Musa Abba Aji.

The ruling created tension among supporters of Uzodinma and Ihedioha. The ousted governor, at some point, stayed away from the State, citing disturbing security reports.

Advertisement

Three weeks ago, Secretary of State Anthony Blinken announced visa restrictions on some unnamed citizens, reiterating U.S. commitment to advancing democracy.

“Today, I am announcing visa restrictions on specific individuals in Nigeria for undermining the democratic process in a recent Nigerian election,” Blinken said.

Advertisement

Under Section 212(a)(3)C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, the individuals and certain family members will be found ineligible for visas to America.

Advertisement
Ayoola Olaitan

Recent Posts

Why Seyi Tinubu Can’t Be Lagos Governor- Igbokwe

A member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Joe Igbokwe, has said Seyi Tinubu, son…

11 hours ago

Simon Ekpa Not Our Member, Should Not Be Associated With Us- IPOB

IPOB PRESS RELEASE 22/11/2024 SIMON EKPA IS NOT AN IPOB MEMBER AND MUST NOT BE…

14 hours ago

NEWSPAPER HEADLINES FOR FRIDAY 22ND NOVEMBER 2024

NEWSPAPER HEADLINES FOR FRIDAY 22ND NOVEMBER 2024. *PUNCH* Gombe begins N28bn Assembly, high court complexes…

15 hours ago

My husband assaulted me, ruined my career – Olajumoke Onibread

Former bread seller turned model, Olajumoke Orisaguna, popularly known as Olajumoke Onibread, has opened up…

18 hours ago

“I did not punch Akpabio” – Senator Bamidele speaks on alleged fight with Senate President

Senate Majority Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele has denies reports that he was involved in a fight…

18 hours ago

Speaker Obasa Clarifies Negative Perceptions As Sanwo-Olu Presents 2025 Budget

– says lawmakers united to meet yearnings of Lagosians – accuses detractors of peddling news…

18 hours ago