The Coalition of Lawyers Against Injustice has issued a strong warning to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former lawmakers in Rivers State over recent judicial actions. The group condemned the overturning of a High Court ruling that had previously dismissed PDP lawmakers for defecting to the APC, describing it as a grave affront to the integrity of the judiciary.
In a statement signed by Moses Okino, ESQ, President of the coalition, he emphasized that it is a fundamental legal principle that a lower court cannot overturn the decision of another court of concurrent jurisdiction. The APC’s actions in Rivers State, they argue, are a clear disregard for this principle and a direct attack on the rule of law.
“We are appalled by the APC’s blatant disregard for the judicial process and their resort to self-help, which can only be described as a wicked assault on the very fabric of our legal system,” said Moses Okino, President of the Coalition of Lawyers Against Injustice. “This egregious behavior will not only erode public trust in the judiciary but also project Nigeria as a laughingstock before the international community.”
The coalition also raised serious concerns about allegations of bribery and the judge’s lack of jurisdiction in this matter. These issues, they assert, require thorough investigation to uphold judicial integrity.
“We urge the APC and the former Rivers State Assembly members to desist from this destructive path and respect the sanctity of the judiciary. The courts must be allowed to function without intimidation or manipulation, and the rule of law must be upheld at all costs,” Okino stated.
The coalition called on the Chief Justice of Nigeria, the Nigerian Bar Association, and all stakeholders to defend the judiciary’s integrity against these actions. They vowed not to remain passive while the country’s democracy is threatened by what they termed the APC’s antics.
“We demand respect for the judiciary and the rule of law and will take all necessary steps to ensure that this demand is met,” Okino concluded.
The Coalition of Lawyers Against Injustice remains committed to protecting the rule of law and ensuring the judiciary operates without undue influence or interference.
