Table of Contents
- Introduction
- CJN's Statement
- Concerns Raised by Justice Agya
- Impact on Judicial Independence
- Response from CJN's Office
The Chief Justice of Nigeria, CJN, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has confirmed that the presidential directive mandating the withdrawal of police officers assigned to Very Important Personalities (VIPs) does not apply to judges. This measure is part of the government's efforts to address the increasing insecurity in the country.
This clarification was made on Saturday by the CJN’s media aide, Tobi Soniyi.
The announcement follows concerns expressed earlier by the Chief Judge of Taraba State, Justice Joel Agya, who indicated that police orderlies assigned to judges in the state had been withdrawn, labeling the action as a significant security threat.
Justice Agya clarified that judges, along with governors, were explicitly excluded from the security withdrawal order, acknowledging their statutory right to police protection.
However, he pointed out that police officers assigned to judicial officials across Taraba were removed on December 8 without any prior notice.
“Removing security details from judges overseeing sensitive cases related to crime, politics, terrorism, and corruption puts them at substantial risk,” Justice Agya stated.
He further stressed that depriving judicial officers of their protection could undermine judicial independence.
“Judicial independence is not only about freedom from interference but also about protecting judges from intimidation. Without security personnel, courtrooms may become unsafe, and judicial processes could be disrupted,” he added.
In response to these concerns, Tobi Soniyi mentioned that the CJN’s office was unaware of any withdrawal of police orderlies from judges and questioned the rationale behind such an action, considering that judges are exempt from the directive.
Soniyi also observed that other judges had not reported similar issues regarding the removal of their security personnel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the directive to withdraw police officers apply to judges?
No, the directive does not apply to judges as they are explicitly exempted from it.
What concerns were raised by the Chief Judge of Taraba State?
The Chief Judge expressed concerns that the withdrawal of police orderlies from judges poses a serious security risk, especially for those handling sensitive cases.
What did Tobi Soniyi say regarding the withdrawal of police orderlies?
Tobi Soniyi stated that the CJN's office was not aware of any such withdrawal and questioned the reasoning behind it, given that judges are exempt from the directive.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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