Wike Pushes Body of Benchers to Axe Odinkalu for Criticising Judiciary
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has called for the Body of Benchers (BoB) to take disciplinary action against prominent human rights lawyer and former chairman of the National Human Rights Commission, Professor Chidi Odinkalu.
Wike’s request, made during a meeting with the BoB in Abuja, stems from Odinkalu’s public criticism of the Nigerian judiciary, which Wike claims undermines the integrity of the legal profession.
At the heart of the dispute is Odinkalu’s vocal criticism of the judiciary, which he alleges is compromised, particularly in cases involving high-profile political figures like Wike.
Odinkalu has been a thorn in the side of Wike, repeatedly accusing him of attempting to manipulate the judiciary through strategic “generosity” and influence. In a series of articles and public statements, Odinkalu has questioned the independence of the judiciary, citing instances where judges have allegedly been swayed by Wike’s gifts and favours.
Wike, on the other hand, has countered that Odinkalu’s criticism is unfounded and amounts to a personal attack on the judiciary. He argues that Odinkalu’s comments erode public confidence in the judiciary and instill fear in judges, making them hesitant to engage in public activities.
Wike has also questioned Odinkalu’s credibility, pointing to his performance at the National Human Rights Commission and his academic credentials.
The latest salvo in the feud came when Odinkalu condemned the presence of Supreme Court Justice Emmanuel Akomaye Agim and Wike at the University of Calabar’s Golden Jubilee Special Convocation, arguing that it suggested an improper proximity between political figures and judicial officers.
Odinkalu’s criticism was swift and scathing, with him accusing Wike of attempting to undermine the independence of the judiciary.
In response to Wike’s call for sanctions, Odinkalu has dismissed the minister’s accusations, suggesting that Wike’s remarks were fueled by “dangerous beverages” and hinting at future revelations about Wike’s past. The exchange marks the latest escalation in a long-standing feud between the two, with Odinkalu claiming that Wike is attempting to silence him and Wike accusing Odinkalu of being a troublemaker.
The Body of Benchers has not yet publicly responded to Wike’s request, leaving it unclear whether disciplinary action against Odinkalu will proceed.
However, the situation highlights the ongoing tensions between judicial independence and political influence in Nigeria, with Wike and Odinkalu embodying opposing sides of the debate.
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has also been drawn into the controversy, with Wike calling on the organization to enforce discipline among its members to protect the judiciary. The NBA has a critical role to play in maintaining the integrity of the legal profession, and its response to the situation will be closely watched.
As the feud between Wike and Odinkalu continues to simmer, it is clear that the stakes are high. The independence of the judiciary is a fundamental cornerstone of democracy, and any attempt to undermine it is a threat to the rule of law. On the other hand, the right to free speech and criticism is also essential in a democratic society, and Odinkalu’s comments, while provocative, are a legitimate exercise of that right.
Ultimately, the outcome of this controversy will depend on the actions of the Body of Benchers and the Nigerian Bar Association. If they choose to sanction Odinkalu, it could be seen as an attempt to silence a vocal critic of the judiciary and undermine the right to free speech. On the other hand, if they choose not to take action, it could be seen as a failure to maintain discipline within the legal profession and protect the integrity of the judiciary. Either way, the controversy is likely to have far-reaching implications for the legal community in Nigeria and the broader democratic process.
