Judicial Corruption: I Am a Victim: Opara Backs NBA President on Judicial Corruption
Abuja based lawyer Mr. Maxwell Opara has thrown his weight behind the NBA President, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, insisting that judicial corruption is real and personally experienced.
Speaking to Vanguard Newspapers, Opara, who identified himself as a victim of judicial misconduct, narrated how judges are sometimes used by politicians to legitimise intimidation, unlawful arrests, and prolonged harassment through frivolous charges.
He alleged that in his own case, a judge who openly expressed hostility towards him refused to recuse himself despite petitions to the Chief Judge and a formal motion for disqualification.
According to Opara, even when an affidavit was sworn confirming the judge’s alleged bias, the judge continued to preside over the matter and awarded costs against him.
He said the experience compelled him to petition the National Judicial Council (NJC), adding that some judges are influenced either by bribery or personal animosity.
Opara insisted that early and open condemnation of judicial corruption is necessary to protect citizens and restore confidence in the justice system.
