The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP), has called on President Bola Tinubu to halt the practice of governors and the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, providing cars and houses to judges, arguing that it compromises judicial independence.
In an open letter signed by SERAP’s Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, the organization claims that such gifts infringe upon the National Judicial Council’s (NJC) authority, risking the judiciary’s impartiality and public trust.
SERAP contends that the practice is “antithetical to constitutional principles” of separation of powers and could create the impression that the judiciary is beholden to the executive.
The group has urged Tinubu to instruct the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, to challenge the legality of these practices in court.
According to SERAP, “Politicians must respect the independence of the judiciary and refrain from actions that may compromise its dignity.”
The letter further asserts that Tinubu’s administration is constitutionally obliged to uphold the rule of law and preserve public confidence in the judiciary’s impartiality.
SERAP warned it may pursue legal action to compel compliance if the federal and state governments do not act on its request.
