The United World Congress of Diplomats has reiterated the need to adhere to the rule of law to prevent interference in the nation’s judicial system.

The secretary-general of the UN-WCD, Tunji Asaolu, disclosed this in Abuja on Friday at a news conference.

Mr Asaolu condemned the reported cases of judicial workers interfering in political issues hindering democracy’s growth.

Mr Asaolu said, “We received complaints from states like Rivers and Benue about judges issuing conflicting orders to frustrate democracy.

“In Osun, there was a conflicting State High Court order and Appeal Court judgement over dissolution of local government council chairmen reinstatement and fresh election by the state electoral empire.

“Also, political interference by Benue chief judge, Maurice Ikpambese, was accused of undermining justice by granting waivers to petitioners, exempting them from paying security deposits as required by law.”

He expressed focus on Benue to be based on security issues that led to the establishment of internally displaced persons (IDPs) camps across the state.

He urged the National Judicial Council to constitute an investigative panel to unravel a resolution passed by the Benue Legislative Arm of Government for the removal of the chief judge from office.

“We, therefore, call on all judicial stakeholders to prioritise the interests of justice, transparency, and accountability in their actions and decisions,” Mr Asaolu said.

He restated that the UN-WCD, in collaboration with the IIEPEA, would remain committed to promoting ethical governance, legal compliance, and institutional integrity in the country. 

(NAN)