The Sultan of Sokoto has raised alarm over Nigeria’s justice system, declaring that access to justice is increasingly becoming a purchasable commodity, favoring the wealthy over the poor.
The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, decried the state of Nigeria’s justice system, warning that it is becoming a purchasable commodity accessible only to the affluent. Speaking at the Nigerian Bar Association’s Annual General Conference in Enugu, the Sultan, Chairman of the Northern Traditional Rulers Council, highlighted how rising litigation costs exclude the vulnerable, allowing the rich to evade accountability while the poor suffer.
The Sultan urged legal professionals to champion reforms that prioritize social justice and reduce inequalities, emphasizing that justice remains the foundation of stable societies. He called for decolonizing Nigeria’s legal framework to align with cultural values and improving access to justice for all citizens. His remarks follow concerns about systemic biases, with the Sultan lamenting poor policy implementation despite Nigeria’s robust frameworks.
The warning has sparked urgent calls for judicial reform, with some advocating for accessible legal aid, while others stress addressing corruption within the system. The Sultan’s critique, echoing longstanding governance challenges, tests Nigeria’s commitment to equitable justice. As the nation reflects on his words, the call for reform shapes a critical dialogue on restoring trust in Nigeria’s legal institutions.