The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has expressed grave concerns over recent legal developments involving Rivers State, particularly the actions of Justice Barka, Presiding Judge of the Abuja Court of Appeal. HURIWA alleges that Justice Barka may be part of a plot to manipulate rulings detrimental to Rivers State, which could impact the state’s financial allocations.
HURIWA is calling for a thorough investigation by the National Judicial Council (NJC), the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), and the President of the Court of Appeal (PCA) to ensure judicial integrity, especially as the disbandment of a special panel has sparked fears of political interference.
On November 14, 2024, a special panel was established to hear Rivers State-related appeals. However, under alleged political pressure from figures loyal to former Governor Nyesom Wike, the panel was unexpectedly dissolved last night after issuing a ruling favoring Rivers State. This move has raised suspicions of an attempt to manipulate legal outcomes.
HURIWA claims that Justice Barka reassigned the cases to himself, a decision the group believes could compromise impartiality, especially concerning federal allocation disputes. This has cast doubt on the fairness of future rulings, potentially putting Rivers State at a disadvantage.
In a recent legal victory for Rivers State, the Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal, led by Justice Onyekachi Otisi, overturned a Federal High Court decision that halted the October 5 local government elections in Rivers. The reversal was seen as a confirmation of the state’s authority over its elections.
Nevertheless, HURIWA is alarmed by the timing of the panel’s disbandment, particularly amid financial disputes involving the state’s allocations. They argue that a judiciary swayed by political influence undermines public confidence and erodes the rule of law.
The organization has urged the NJC, CJN, and PCA to investigate the matter, emphasizing the need for transparency in cases affecting Rivers State’s financial interests. HURIWA warns that any judge found to be compromised should face accountability measures and reiterates the importance of judicial independence for Nigeria’s democratic integrity.
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As tensions rise in Rivers State’s legal and political landscape, HURIWA has pledged to monitor the situation and collaborate with other civil society organizations to ensure a fair legal process. They call for the judiciary to remain impartial, particularly in cases that affect significant financial and governance matters.
HURIWA’s leadership remains committed to transparency and justice, urging judicial authorities to take swift action to uphold the rule of law and protect Nigeria’s democratic values.
Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko
National Coordinator,
Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA)
November 22, 2024
