ABUJA, NIGERIA – Former Anambra State Governor and prominent opposition figure Peter Obi has expressed deep concern over what he described as the systematic weakening of Nigeria’s key institutions, particularly the judiciary, citing the controversial removal of former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Walter Onnoghen, and a recent Federal High Court order deregistering several political parties.
In a statement, Obi highlighted the long-term consequences of the 2019 suspension and removal of Justice Onnoghen under the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari. He argued that while the immediate political effects may have faded, the precedent continues to undermine public and international confidence in the independence of the judiciary.
“Strong economies are built on trust,” Obi stated. “Investors can manage security risks, policy risks, and even market risks. What they fear most is uncertainty in the rule of law and a judiciary that is perceived to be vulnerable to political pressure.”
He noted that many Nigerians have lost faith in domestic institutions meant to protect them, leading businesses to increasingly insist on foreign jurisdictions for contract governance and dispute resolution.
Obi emphasized that nations thrive when institutions are stronger than individuals and cautioned against sacrificing critical democratic institutions for political expediency.
Criticism of Party Deregistration Ruling
The Labour Party chieftain specifically criticized Monday’s Federal High Court judgment in Abuja, which ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and four other political parties — Accord Party, Action Alliance, Action Peoples Party, and Zenith Labour Party — for allegedly failing to meet constitutional electoral performance thresholds under Section 225A of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
Obi described the ruling as “one of those actions that further diminishes the common man’s trust in our legal system” and called for the decision to be reconsidered.
Pledge to Restore Judicial Integrity
Looking ahead to the 2027 general election cycle, Obi pledged that restoring the dignity, independence, and integrity of the judiciary would be among his top priorities if given the opportunity to lead the country.
“The common man must have a voice. The business community must be protected from legal uncertainty and intimidation. Justice must be impartial, accessible, and respected by all,” he said.
He also issued a direct appeal to judges, Senior Advocates of Nigeria, and other legal practitioners, urging them to defend the rule of law and protect the nation’s democratic institutions.
“This is your moment. Rise, defend the rule of law, and take back your country,” Obi said.
He concluded with his signature message of hope: “A New Nigeria is Possible.”
The remarks come amid ongoing debates over judicial independence, political pluralism, and investor confidence in Africa’s largest economy. The Onnoghen case remains a sensitive chapter in Nigeria’s legal and political history, particularly after the Court of Appeal later discharged and acquitted the former Chief Justice of the charges that led to his removal.
Meanwhile, opposition parties affected by the deregistration order have vowed to challenge the judgment on appeal, describing it as a threat to Nigeria’s multi-party democratic system.
