‘Don’t Judges Know Where to Buy Cars?’ Prof Ojukwu Criticizes Gov Ododo’s Gesture, Calls It ‘Nonsense’

Professor Ernest Maduabuchi Ojukwu, a former Deputy Director-General and Head of Campus of the Nigerian Law School, has once again criticized a state governor for presenting cars to judges as gifts.

In X handle @ernestojukwu, Prof Ojukwu slammed Governor Ododo of Kogi State for giving 11 cars to judges in the state, calling it a “GESTURE for the welfare of judges.”

Prof Ojukwu, who is known for his strong stance against governors presenting cars as gifts to judges, questioned the state of judicial independence in Kogi. He argued that cars should be budgeted work tools for judges and that the judiciary should know where to buy their own vehicles.

This is not the first time Prof Ojukwu has raised concerns about governors gifting cars to judges. TheNigeriaLawyer recalls that he had previously questioned the decision of Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State, who presented six Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) to the state judiciary.

In response to Prof Ojukwu’s criticism, the Benue State Attorney General had stated that the procurement of vehicles for the judiciary was a symbol of support and commitment, as promised by the governor when he assumed office. The Attorney General further emphasized that the gesture was significant because the governor had already granted full financial autonomy to the judiciary in February 2024.