By Prof. Yemi Akinseye-George, SAN
The action reportedly taken by his Lordship the CJN to investigate the issuance by courts of coordinate jurisdiction of conflicting orders in respect of the Rivers State LG Election is a step in the right direction. It is within the powers of the CJN to demand personal accountability from any judge perceived to be stepping outside the bounds of legality, embarrassing the judiciary and endangering our democracy.
We must however not prejudge the outcomes of the investigation. Yet the action by the CJN is good for the image of the judiciary. All heads of courts and judges should know that it is no longer business as usual.
A child who does not allow the mother to sleep will himself not sleep peacefully. A judge must only give an order he can defend in good conscience with or without any appeal therefrom.
We pray the CJN to make the work of the investigation committee public. We also humbly pray the CJN to prohibit any court from granting any injunction to prevent the investigation committee from performing its functions.
Finally, we urge that the outcomes must be acted upon in line with the Due Process of Law. This is the way to go if the judiciary and the entire legal profession are to regain the lost grounds and glory.
Prof. Yemi Akinseye-George, SAN, FCIArb. FNIALS
