By Abayomi Odunowo
The situation in Kogi State, Nigeria, is a troubling manifestation of the erosion of public trust in the justice system. Recent revelations suggest that the current governor is using his position to shield his predecessor from accountability for alleged wrongdoings, raising significant ethical and legal concerns. Execu
tive immunity, designed to protect elected officials from frivolous lawsuits and allow them to govern without fear of constant legal challenges, is seemingly being abused. When a sitting governor prioritizes political loyalty over justice, it undermines the core tenets of democracy and the rule of law. This dilemma poses a profound challenge to good governance and reflects a concerning trend of impunity among political elites, ultimately hindering the progress of democracy in Nigeria.
The crux of the issue lies in the perception that immunity is being utilized not as a protective measure for governance but as a mechanism for avoiding accountability. In Kogi State, the ongoing situation has become a flashpoint for discussions about the ethical implications of political influence, and people are beginning to feel that some officials are above the law. This perception has far-reaching consequences, including diminishing citizens’ faith in democratic institutions and signaling to the public that political allegiance may override legal accountability. As citizens helplessly watch their leaders escape the consequences of their actions, the foundational principles of democracy, including equality before the law and accountability, are at risk of being sacrificed.
The ramifications of allowing this situation to continue are severe. It sends a dangerous message: that those in power can evade scrutiny and accountability, emboldening corruption while simultaneously disenfranchising the very citizens they are meant to serve. As individuals observe high-profile figures evade justice, cynicism towards government institutions grows, leading to despair regarding the possibility of change. These sentiments have been further exacerbated by a growing divide between the political elite and the public, as many perceive that their challenges—be it poor infrastructure, inadequate healthcare, or rampant unemployment—are not being addressed while the influential remain protected from their misdeeds.
Therefore, we call upon civil society organizations, legal experts, and advocates for transparency to rally around this critical issue, demanding prompt investigations into the actions of Kogi State’s leadership and exploring legislative changes that would limit the misuse of executive immunity. This is not merely a legal concern; it is a moral imperative for our democracy. We urge members of the legal community to mobilize and deploy judicial mechanisms to rectify this glaring injustice in our nation. The silence surrounding these events must be shattered, and we cannot afford to turn a blind eye to the influence of politics in the justice system, as it not only jeopardizes accountability but also ensures a dangerous precedent for future leadership in Nigeria.
In moving forward, it is essential for relevant leaders to show genuine commitment to the principles of accountability and integrity. Political will must emerge to address these troubling issues head-on. Collective pressure from citizens and advocacy groups could spur action toward holding all individuals accountable under the law, regardless of their status or political affiliation. This could include a range of solutions, from revising existing legislation regarding executive immunity to implementing stricter protocols for oversight and accountability for public officials.
This is a call to action for all stakeholders involved. Civil society organizations need to take a proactive stance, mobilizing public sentiment to advocate for legal reforms that safeguard against the misuse of power. The public outcry for justice must resonate at all levels—through grassroots movements, social media campaigns, and awareness programs, ultimately fostering an environment that demands integrity and accountability from all leaders.
At this critical juncture in Kogi State’s political landscape, we stand united in our demand for immediate investigations and comprehensive changes that address the ethical and legal implications of executive immunity. Together, we can foster a climate of accountability, reinforcing the foundations of democracy and rebuilding trust in our institutions. The time for change is now, and justice must prevail—not just for Kogi State but for the future of democracy in Nigeria.
Otunba Abdulfalil Abayomi Odunowo
National Chairman AATSG
Mobile: +2349053535322.