Prof. Sagay Advocates Reform: Urges Limitation Of Supreme Court Appeals To Human Rights And Constitution Cases
Senior lawyer and academic, Prof Itse Sagay (SAN), believes the apex court’s fallen standards and negative public perception resulting from controversial rulings can change for the better through appropriate reforms.
In an interview with Vanguard, Sagay regretfully reminisced about the Supreme Court’s “golden era” when renowned justices like Kayode Esho, Chukwudifu Oputa and others reigned with remarkable jurisprudence. He however argued that current failings though worrying are redeemable.
The professor advocated constituting the apex bench from beyond only Court of Appeal justices by appointing senior advocates, law teachers and other eminent jurists based on merit. He said this will strengthen capacity.
Sagay also canvassed upward review of remunerations and conditions of service for Supreme Court justices to boost integrity and eliminate vulnerability to inducements.
Additionally, the frontline activist wants limitation of appeals reaching the court to only constitutional, political and human rights cases instead of endless commercial disputes compounding delays. He pressed for conclusion of all election matters before swearing-in.
On Chief Judges, Sagay affirmed the illegality of Osun Governor Adeleke’s suspension of Justice Ojo without recourse to the National Judicial Council as clearly stipulated in the constitution. He dismissed the reversal as face-saving after realizing their error.
Overall, Prof Sagay insisted that while deeply worried about the Supreme Court’s reputation, he remains hopeful it can regain glory through reforms targeting quality appointments, motivation and efficiency.
