The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has strongly condemned the deliberate and systematic exclusion of the South East in the determination of presidential election petition appeals of the Supreme Court of Nigeria.
This was contained in a press release signed by HURIWA National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, dated October 28th, 2023.
Comrade Onwubiko said that the exclusion represents a grave injustice and a direct affront to the principles of equity and justice upon which our legal system is founded.
He noted that with the Supreme Court of Nigeria now lacks representation from the South East region, which he said, is a cause for serious concern and jeopardizes the fundamental tenets of a fair and equitable justice system.
Onwubiko emphasized that every region of the diverse nation deserves a voice in the highest court of the land.
He said: “The deliberate exclusion of the South East not only undermines the principles of democracy and equity but also poses a significant threat to the fair hearing of cases that pertain to this region, including that of Nnamdi Kanu.”
He stressed that the exclusion of the South East from the Supreme Court bench raises serious questions about the fairness and impartiality of the highest court in the land.
He noted further: “Posterity will not forgive or forget this systemic and outrageous exclusion, which calls into question the integrity of our judicial system.
” The exclusion of the Southeast has far-reaching implications. They include:
1. Undermined Democracy: In a democratic nation, the representation of all regions in key institutions, especially in the judiciary, is essential to upholding the principles of fairness, diversity, and inclusivity.
2. Inequitable Justice: Excluding the South East from the Supreme Court raises questions about the impartiality of the court, especially in cases concerning this region. This not only affects the fairness of trial outcomes but also erodes public trust in the legal system.
3. Impact on Specific Cases: Notably, the exclusion of the South East region may jeopardize the fair hearing of cases pertaining to this region, such as that of Nnamdi Kanu. The absence of regional representation can create concerns about bias and a lack of empathy in the adjudication process.
4. Threat to Posterity: The deliberate exclusion of the South East will be remembered in history as a grave injustice that weakened the democratic fabric of the country. Future generations may view this as a betrayal of the nation’s foundational principles.
HURIWA, therefore, called on the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, to:
“Address this issue promptly and take necessary measures to ensure the immediate representation of the South East on the Supreme Court bench.
“Restore public trust in the legal system by demonstrating a commitment to fairness, diversity, and equal representation.
“Uphold the democratic values that Nigeria stands for by ensuring all regions have a voice in the highest court.
HURIWA said that it stands firm in its commitment to defending the rights and interests of all Nigerians, and will continue to advocate for a just and equitable legal system that upholds the principles of democracy, fairness, and inclusivity.
The civil rights group added that it is dedicated to advocating for justice, equity, and the protection of human rights.
“We will continue to monitor this issue closely, as it is a matter of fundamental importance to the principles of democracy and fairness in our nation’s legal system.
“We are committed to keeping the public informed and will persist in our efforts to ensure that all Nigerians receive equal and just treatment under the law,” Onwubiko said.
