Osigwe Critiques Nigeria's Electoral Process at Editors Conference

Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, the former president of the Nigeria Bar Association, expressed concerns regarding the chaotic political climate and judiciary in Nigeria, particularly in relation to electoral matters. Speaking at the 22nd edition of the Nigeria Guild of Editors Conference in Enugu, he highlighted how politicians exploit the judiciary's weaknesses by urging opponents to "go to court," knowing that the courts may be compromised.

Osigwe argued that this practice has deterred respectable individuals from engaging in the electoral process. He discussed the implications of the judiciary's involvement in political disputes, suggesting that it has led to increased corruption and a negative perception of judicial integrity.

Osigwe advocated for the non-justiciability of pre-election matters, emphasizing that political parties should manage their internal processes without judicial interference. He lamented the judiciary's failure to uphold rules, which complicates lawyers' ability to advise clients on court rulings, ultimately affecting Nigeria's democracy and governance.