NIGERIA: “At Federal High” Court there’s judge called Omotosho whose entire purpose is to defend Wike’s interest – Odinkalu
Former Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Professor Chidi Odinkalu, has accused a Federal High Court judge, Justice James Omotosho, of using his position to promote political interests.
In a post shared on his social media page, Odinkalu claimed that the judge’s decisions often appear to support the political agenda of Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike.
He alleged that the judge’s actions were carried out under the guise of legal procedures but were aimed at advancing political goals.
“At the @FederalHigh, there is a judge called James Omotosho, whose entire purpose in the court appears to be to defend, protect, and advance the political interests of @GovWike under appearances of jurisprudence,” he wrote.
In his post, Odinkalu expressed concern over what he described as a growing trend of political influence within Nigeria’s judiciary.
He stated that the independence of the courts is being weakened by judges who act to please politicians rather than uphold justice.
According to him, the judiciary should be a place of fairness and impartiality, not an instrument for political manipulation.
He warned that when judges take sides in political matters, public confidence in the judicial system is eroded.
The human rights activist further said that this pattern of behaviour poses a serious threat to democracy.
He noted that the judiciary remains the last hope for citizens seeking justice, and any compromise in its integrity would endanger the nation’s democratic stability.
Odinkalu’s statement has since attracted wide attention and debate online.
Many Nigerians reacted to his post, with some supporting his claims and others defending the judiciary.
Professor Odinkalu is known for his outspoken stance on issues of governance and justice.
He maintained that restoring credibility to the courts requires courage, integrity, and a firm stand against political interference in judicial affairs.
In another corresponding post Odinkalu gave evidence on one of the rulings of the judge as regards certain decisions of the National Assembly.
He said, “For those asking me whether James Omotosho actually said a voice vote is compatible with the two-thirds requirement for a joint resolution of @nassnigeria on an emergency proclamation under S. 305 of #Nigeria’s Constitution, pls read p. 64 of his judgment in the Amatonjie case” and he posted the documented evidence as shown below.
