The Body of Senior Advocates of Nigeria (BOSAN) has raised alarm over what it described as a growing threat to Nigeria’s federal system, warning that the dominance of a single political party has weakened opposition and placed heavier responsibility on the judiciary.
Speaking at the ceremonial commencement of the 2025/2026 Legal Year of the Federal High Court and the 41st Annual Judges’ Conference in Abuja, BOSAN, through former Attorney-General of the Federation Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN), declared: “When there is no strong opposition, the judiciary must be strong. It must be adept. It must be innovative. It must defend the law and the constitution, and employ every inherent sanction of a court of law.”
With the All Progressives Congress (APC) controlling at least 26 of Nigeria’s 36 states, BOSAN warned of a tilt toward a one-party state.
It cautioned against the “criminalisation of politics,” urging judges to safeguard constitutionally guaranteed rights and resist the corrosive influence of money, violence, and ethnicity in the electoral process.
“Do so now! Do not fear and do not be afraid. If this generation does not appreciate you, generations to come will do so,” the body said.
Judiciary as Last Line of Defence
Chief Justice of Nigeria Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun acknowledged that public expectations of the judiciary have risen sharply, stressing that credibility depends not only on judgments but also on daily discipline.
“The Judiciary does not speak through press statements or public commentary; our judgments constitute our voice,” she said, adding that punctuality, consistency, and transparency in court processes are now essential measures of justice.
She emphasised that judicial independence is the lifeblood of democracy, but must be exercised with responsibility and moral clarity. “Independence, standing alone, is insufficient unless exercised with responsibility and moral clarity,” she noted.
Federal High Court Chief Judge Justice John T. Tsoho disclosed that the court disposed of 16,019 cases in the 2023/2024 legal year, including 5,818 criminal matters and 3,374 fundamental rights cases.
He highlighted reforms such as the rollout of e-filing in Lagos, with plans to extend nationwide, alongside investments in infrastructure and technology.
Nigerian Bar Association President Afam Osigwe (SAN) urged the judiciary to guard its independence jealously, noting that its authority rests on public confidence in neutrality.
He commended the Federal High Court’s resilience but called for continued courage, stressing that judicial decisions remain vital in shaping governance and ensuring national stability.
The speeches collectively underscored a sobering truth: in a political climate where opposition is weak, the judiciary must stand taller than ever to preserve Nigeria’s democracy.
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