The judiciary, often regarded as the last hope of the common man, serves as a mirror of justice and fairness in society.

As Nigeria grappled with pressing economic, political and social issues in 2024, the judiciary played a critical role in arbitrating disputes and upholding constitutional principles. The year saw a wave of landmark judicial pronouncements and controversies that shaped the nation?s legal landscape.

Judgments during the year sparked applause and criticism, often in equal measure. These rulings addressed election outcomes, human rights cases, public protests, corruption in the public sector and other pivotal matters, leaving an indelible mark on Nigeria?s judiciary.

This review by PUNCH Online highlights 2024?s most significant judicial events, exploring their impact on governance and justice.

1. #EndBadGovernance Protests

The nationwide protests against economic hardship and poor governance under President Bola Tinubu?s administration, held from August 1 to 10, 2024, called for reduced governance costs, the reinstatement of the petrol subsidy, food security, fiscal discipline and other reforms.

Some of these protests turned violent in several states, leading to looting and vandalism.

One incident that garnered significant attention was the arraignment of 76 #EndBadGovernance protesters at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Friday, November 1, 2024. Among them were minors charged with 10 felony counts, including treason, destruction of property, public disturbance, and mutiny.

The court granted bail to the 76 protesters, setting a total bail amount of N760 million, with two sureties per defendant.

Three days later, President Tinubu, through the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, announced the immediate release of the minors during an emergency briefing at the Aso Rock Villa, Abuja.

2. Rivers State Crisis

The political structure of Rivers State was shaken by the crisis between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, which escalated into a clash among their supporters and culminated in legal battles.

The pro-Wike lawmakers, led by Martin Amaewhule, allegedly defected from the Peoples Democratic Party to the All Progressives Congress, under which Wike serves as the FCT Minister.

In May 2024, Justice Charles Wali of the Rivers State High Court issued an interim injunction restraining Amaewhule and 24 other lawmakers from parading themselves as legislators. Subsequent rulings by Justices Okogbule Gbasam and Peter Lifu produced conflicting verdicts on the status of the pro-Wike lawmakers.

The Rivers State Local Government elections in October 2024 also witnessed significant legal drama, with court rulings delaying the election and affecting its conduct.

3. Supreme Court Upholds Governorship Elections

The Supreme Court ruled on appeals challenging the outcomes of governorship elections in 16 states. In all cases, the apex court upheld the elections, ensuring that no governors were removed from office.

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, his Abia, Bauchi, Cross River, Ebonyi, Plateau, Zamfara States counterparts; Alex Otti, Bala Mohammed, Bassey Out, Francis Nwifuru, Caleb Mutfwang and Dauda Lawal

Governors whose mandates were upheld included Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Alex Otti (Abia), Bala Mohammed (Bauchi), and others.

4. Shaibu Reinstated as Edo Deputy Governor

The impeachment of former Edo State Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu in April 2024 was voided in July by Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja.

The judge ruled that the allegations against Shaibu were untenable and directed his reinstatement.

5. Supreme Court Approves LG Autonomy

In a landmark judgment, the Supreme Court affirmed the financial autonomy of Nigeria?s 774 local government areas, ruling that state governors could no longer control funds meant for the councils.

6. Justice Kekere-Ekun Emerges Chief Justice of Nigeria

Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun was sworn in as Nigeria?s 23rd substantive Chief Justice, becoming the second woman to hold the position. Her appointment marked a milestone in the history of Nigeria?s judiciary.

7. Lagos Appeal Court Acquits Doctor of Alleged Rape

The Lagos Division of the Court of Appeal overturned the conviction of Dr Olufemi Olaleye, who was sentenced to life imprisonment for allegedly defiling his wife?s niece. The case remains a contentious issue, with the Lagos State Government appealing the acquittal.

8. Housing Gifts for Judges Spark Controversy

The Federal Government?s decision to construct 40 housing units for judges in the Federal Capital Territory drew criticism from human rights lawyer Femi Falana and the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project, who argued that such actions could compromise judicial independence.

9. Yahaya Bello and the EFCC

Former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello faced trial for alleged misappropriation of N80.2 billion in public funds. Despite the EFCC?s efforts, Bello?s case was marked by delays and controversies, including his brief arrest and subsequent release.

10. Alleged Defamation: Farotimi vs Afe Babalola

Lawyer and activist Dele Farotimi faced criminal defamation charges filed by Senior Advocate of Nigeria Aare Afe Babalola over accusations in Farotimi?s book. The case is still pending in court. (The PUNCH)

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