Kogi Guber: Barrister Mushibar Hamid bares his mind on what transpires at the Supreme Court
Today’s proceedings at the Supreme Court were anticipated to deliver justice for the people of Kogi state. However, contrary to expectations, Justice Iyang Okoro, presiding over the Supreme Court, left numerous appellants disheartened by pressuring their counsel to withdraw their appeals.
This unfortunate development signifies a disregard for their constitutional responsibilities and a failure to uphold justice, particularly in the context of drafting judgments. The justices employed intimidation tactics to compel lawyers to withdraw their appeals, even imposing costs on them following withdrawal.
This approach is highly unjust, as it contradicts the principles of natural justice, fairness, and equity. Furthermore, it represents an assault on the judiciary as a whole, as the Court is meant to serve as the final refuge for the common man seeking justice.
Regrettably, this is not the reality. Justice Iyang Okoro and his fellow justices have deviated from the path of natural justice by neglecting to examine appeals on their merits or even granting them a hearing.
It has become evident that the Supreme Court justices now act as advocates for the respondent, compelling appellants to withdraw their appeals without affording them an opportunity to present their case on its merits.
This alarming trend poses a significant threat to the integrity of the nation’s judiciary and the well-being of those seeking justice.
