Peter Obi, the former governor of Anambra State in Nigeria, has expressed concern over the decline of Nigeria's judicial system. He warns that this deterioration threatens stability, human rights, and institutional integrity. Obi communicated these concerns in a post dated May 15, which detailed his keynote address at Godfrey Okoye University in Enugu.
"While the judiciary today still boasts of a few outstanding judges, there is an undeniable decline in our judicial system," said Obi. "When the rule of law is compromised, the most vulnerable members of society are disproportionately affected, and the fabric of our society begins to fray. The integrity of our institutions, the protection of human rights, and the stability of our nation are all jeopardized."
According to Daniel Eriksson, CEO of Transparency International, an organization dedicated to combating corruption worldwide, victims can often be denied justice in countries plagued by corruption. As reported by West Africa Wire, Transparency International's 2023 Corruption Perceptions Index placed Nigeria at 145 out of 180 countries regarding corruption levels. The ranking implies that Nigeria is among the most corrupt nations globally. Reports have emerged suggesting bribery, extortion, and political interference within Nigeria's justice system.
Reuters reports that Nigerian officials are under scrutiny for alleged bribery following the detention of an employee from Binance, the world's largest cryptocurrency exchange. Tigran Gambaryan, a U.S. citizen and the detained employee, was reportedly invited to Nigeria for policy discussions with government officials. However, he was later detained amidst accusations of a $150 million payment demand for his release.
DL News further reports that Gambaryan was detained after accusations were made against Binance for manipulating currency exchange rates. Gambaryan is a former US federal government employee whose court proceedings were delayed earlier this week due to Nigerian officials' failure to present him in court. During a court appearance on May 23rd, Gambaryan fainted—an incident his lawyer attributes to deteriorating health conditions resulting from eight weeks spent in a Nigerian prison.
Amnesty International researchers have described the conditions within Nigerian prisons as "appalling," according to an organization press release. They depict cells as "squalid" and overcrowded with overflowing toilets that are "little more than holes in the floor." Disease is reportedly "rampant" due to the unsanitary and crowded conditions. Inmates have reported that access to medical staff and supplies is only possible if they can afford bribes.
According to the Labour Party's website, Obi served as governor of Nigeria's Anambra State from 2006 to 2014. He was also the Labour Party's presidential nominee for the 2023 election.