Renowned Nigerian activist, Aisha Yesufu, has openly criticized the Nigerian judiciary, accusing it of betraying the Constitution and the citizens it is meant to protect.
In an interview on Arise News, the vocal human rights advocate addressed growing concerns about recent court rulings and ongoing legal battles, including the case of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who is seeking to reclaim her seat in the National Assembly.
“Our Nigerian judiciary should wake up. They’ve failed the system, failed the country, and failed even the oath that they swore,” Yesufu declared.
“Judiciary Is Now a Tool for Corrupt Politicians” – Yesufu
Yesufu lamented that what was once considered the last hope of the common man has become a plaything for corrupt politicians, with courts frequently disrespected and their decisions openly ignored by the same institutions they are meant to regulate.
She cited incidents where judicial injunctions—including those related to the suspension of legislators—were flagrantly disregarded by the National Assembly, further proving how deeply politics has infiltrated the legal system.
“They didn’t listen. They didn’t bother. Politicians are the ones dictating a lot of things for our judiciary,” she said.
A Call for Judicial Reform
Aisha Yesufu emphasized the urgent need for the judiciary to undergo internal reforms aimed at restoring independence, credibility, and justice to the system. She urged judicial officers to reflect on their oath of office and recommit to serving the people and upholding the rule of law.
“It’s time for the judiciary to sit up and cleanse itself from within. Nigeria cannot thrive under a justice system that has lost its soul,” she added.
