A former President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Isa Salami (retd), has criticised aspects of Nigeria’s judicial system, arguing that former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, ought not to have been cleared to contest the 2023 presidential election under the Labour Party.
Salami also attributed some controversial court rulings to what he described as the inadequacy and incompetence of certain judges.
The retired jurist made these remarks in Ilorin, Kwara State, during a courtesy visit by the Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism (WSCIJ), where he was honoured with an award. The presentation was led by WSCIJ Founder, Dapo Olorunyomi, alongside Motunrayo Alaka.
Speaking at his residence, Salami noted that while not necessarily corrupt, some judges lack the requisite training and background for the bench.
“There are a few bad eggs among judges. Strictly speaking, not bad eggs, but some have learning deficiencies. They lack the proper foundation to be judges. In the past, such appointments would not have happened,” he said.
He linked the issue partly to the proliferation of law faculties across the country, which he said may have diluted standards.
According to him, this inadequacy often results in flawed judgments, even at the highest levels of the judiciary.
Citing the 2023 elections, Salami argued that Obi’s candidacy did not align with constitutional provisions, noting that the Labour Party had already submitted its membership list to the Independent National Electoral Commission before Obi joined.
“How did he become a candidate of LP if he was not a member?” he queried, stressing that Nigeria’s Constitution does not recognise independent candidacy.
He drew a parallel with the case of Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, whose membership status in the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) was also contested, despite being accepted by the Supreme Court.
Salami further criticised the process of judicial appointments, arguing that merit is sometimes sidelined in favour of regional considerations, allowing less experienced judges to rise above more qualified colleagues.
Reflecting on his career, he described the situation as a systemic flaw that has affected the quality of decisions at the apex court.
Despite his criticisms, Salami expressed appreciation to the WSCIJ for the honour, noting that such recognition is valued across the judiciary.
He also acknowledged the influence of Nobel laureate Wole Soyinka on his principles, and credited late nationalist Obafemi Awolowo for inspiring his decision to study law.
According to him, Awolowo’s self-defence during his treason trial shaped his resolve to pursue a legal career, with the aim of being able to defend himself if faced with similar circumstances.
