The Vanguard for the Independence of the Judiciary has condemned what it described as attempts to malign the Chief Judge of Edo State, Hon. Justice Daniel Iyobosa Okungbowa, warning that attacks on the head of the state’s judiciary could undermine judicial independence and democratic governance.
The group, in a statement issued by its Convener, Douglas Ogbankwa, Esq., said safeguarding the office of the Chief Judge was essential to preserving the autonomy and integrity of the Edo State Judiciary.
According to Ogbankwa, “Protecting the Chief Judge of Edo State is protecting the Edo State Judiciary against intrusive attacks from outside forces.”
He maintained that judicial independence is a fundamental right of citizens rather than a privilege enjoyed by judges, stressing that the judiciary must remain free from political influence, executive interference and public pressure.
“Any attack on the Chief Judge is an attack on the institutional autonomy of the entire judiciary. When the head of the court is intimidated, every magistrate, every registrar and every litigant feels the impact. A judiciary that cannot govern itself cannot effectively protect the Constitution,” he said.
The group noted that the principles of separation of powers and judicial autonomy are guaranteed under the 1999 Constitution, adding that the guidelines of the National Judicial Council (NJC) provide established procedures for the appointment, discipline and removal of judicial officers.
Ogbankwa argued that due process should be respected in matters concerning the judiciary rather than subjecting judicial officers to what he termed “media trials” or political pressure.
“A virile judiciary is indispensable to an egalitarian society. Without independent courts, rights exist only on paper. Democracy is endangered when judicial decisions are influenced by public sentiment rather than the rule of law,” he stated.
The Vanguard further emphasized that internal accountability mechanisms within the judiciary, guided by constitutional provisions and NJC regulations, are more effective in strengthening public confidence in the justice system than external interference.
The group described Justice Okungbowa as “a quintessential exemplar of how to be a Chief Judge,” commending his commitment to due process, institutional integrity and the administration of justice.
It therefore called on the media, civil society groups and members of the public to avoid spreading narratives capable of weakening confidence in the judiciary.
“Democracy stands or falls at the courtroom door. Protect the judiciary today, or weep for justice tomorrow,” the statement added.
