The Nigerian Bar Association and the Fight for Judicial Independence

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has in recent months intensified its advocacy for the protection of judicial independence, responding to what it describes as a pattern of executive interference and systemic underfunding of the courts.

At its recent annual general conference, the NBA passed resolutions calling for the immediate implementation of financial autonomy for state judiciaries — a constitutional provision that many state governors have refused to honour despite court orders mandating compliance.

'Judicial independence is not a luxury. It is the foundation of democracy and the rule of law,' said the NBA President in his keynote address. 'When courts cannot function independently, justice becomes a commodity available only to the powerful.'

The issue of judicial appointments has also come under scrutiny. Critics argue that the process of appointing judges to superior courts — nominally managed by the National Judicial Council (NJC) — is increasingly subject to political influence. Several recent judicial appointments have been challenged in court.

The underfunding of courts remains a critical problem. Many magistrate courts and high courts across Nigeria lack basic infrastructure including reliable electricity, internet access, and even sufficient courtrooms. The result is chronic case delays that deny Nigerians access to timely justice.

Digitisation of court processes has been slow but is progressing. The Lagos State Judiciary has been a pioneer in electronic filing and virtual hearings, with other states gradually following suit. The Supreme Court has also introduced an electronic case management system that is beginning to reduce paperwork and delays.

Lawyers are calling on the incoming and sitting governors of all 36 states to respect the constitutional provision on judicial financial autonomy, and on the federal government to significantly increase the budget allocation to the judiciary.