Chidi Odinkalu Criticizes NBA for Endorsing Ekiti Judiciary’s Disavowal

Renowned human rights activist and legal scholar, Chidi Odinkalu, has expressed deep disappointment with the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) for endorsing the Ekiti State Judiciary’s statement distancing itself from a controversial ruling issued by an Ikole Ekiti Magistrate Court.

The NBA had shared an update on its official X (formerly Twitter) account, supporting the Ekiti Judiciary’s repudiation of the order. However, the legal community’s reaction has been mixed, with Odinkalu condemning both the initial order and the judiciary’s disavowal, calling the latter “worse and more damaging.”

Odinkalu questioned the legitimacy of the procedure by which the order was set aside, criticizing the judiciary for its lack of transparency and independence. He raised concerns over the Chief Registrar’s focus on protecting the judiciary’s image rather than addressing the core issues of the case.

He also dismissed the claim that a panel had been set up to investigate the matter, stating that no law allows such bodies to handle judicial issues, a practice he believes undermines the Judicial Service Commission’s (JSC) authority. In addition, Odinkalu accused the Ekiti judiciary of fostering executive interference in judicial matters, citing previous instances of similar concerns.

The NBA’s endorsement of the statement has sparked further debate, with Odinkalu urging the NBA leadership, under President Afam Osigwe (SAN), to disassociate itself from the Ekiti Judiciary’s stance and instead push for a formal inquiry by the JSC.

Meanwhile, the Ekiti State Judiciary has officially vacated the controversial order issued by the magistrate on January 23, 2025. A press release from the judiciary expressed regret over the order and reiterated its commitment to upholding justice, fairness, and transparency. The NBA President, Afam Osigwe, assured that the association would investigate the matter further and take necessary actions.

The case centers around a legal dispute involving allegations of fraud and financial misconduct, where the magistrate’s ruling sparked outrage by mandating the arrest of any lawyer attempting to lift a Post-No-Debit (PND) order without police authorization. In response, the Ekiti State Judiciary has set up a Panel of Inquiry to investigate the issue and recommend the appropriate actions.