The Society for Rule of Law in Nigeria has condemned the withdrawal of a police orderly from a Rivers State High Court judge.
The group called the move worrisome, unconstitutional, and a blatant abuse of power.
Its Coordinator, Dr. Chima Ubeku, said the action threatens judicial independence and the rule of law in Nigeria.
He urged Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to investigate and restore the judge’s security immediately.
“The Police must remember their power comes from the people, not above them,” the group stated.
SRLN called on the Nigerian Bar Association, National Judicial Council, and civil society to defend the judiciary’s independence, warning that leaving judges unprotected endangers Nigeria’s democracy.
The controversy followed a landmark ruling in Commissioner of Police v. Joy Uwheraka & Ors (PHC/1785/CR/2024).
The Rivers State High Court had exposed grave abuses and inconsistencies in the Police’s investigation.
Twelve citizens were wrongly accused of murder and later cleared of all charges.
The court described the investigation as a gross abuse of process that offends the conscience of justice.
Video evidence showed the defendants were unarmed and peaceful, contrary to police claims.
Witnesses reportedly gave false and contradictory statements under cross-examination, and the court condemned the Police for manufacturing evidence and coercing statements.
“All twelve defendants are discharged and acquitted,” the judge ruled, earning praise for judicial courage.
Shortly after the ruling, reports emerged that the judge’s police orderly had been withdrawn.
The move sparked outrage, seen by many as retaliation for the verdict against the Police Force.
“Punishing a judge for fairness sends a dangerous message,” SRLN warned.
The group said this incident tests Nigeria’s commitment to democracy and justice.
“This is the moment Nigeria must decide — protect judicial independence or let fear silence the fearless,” Dr. Ubeku said.
He added that the judiciary’s independence is the heartbeat of a free society.
