Judicial independence entails that the judiciary be made to operate effectively and independently of the other branches of government to guarantee rule of law and separation of powers which are important ingredients of democracy.

A major way to achieve this is for the State Governors to implement the relevant laws on financial autonomy of the Judiciary in their various States. Financial autonomy for the Judiciary will enable the Judiciary to manage its funds independently without interference from any quarter. This will also enable the Judiciary to set and realise its strategic goals without hindrances or delays.

It is important for State Governors to honour and implement the Executive Order signed by His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari on May 23, 2020 granting the Judiciary financial independence from the executive arm of government.

Section 121(3) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) also guarantees the independence and financial autonomy of the state Judiciary.

Just as I am fully supportive of the call for fiscal federalism in Nigeria in favor of state governments. I am in full support of the position taken by the proactive President of the NIgerian Bar Association on the ongoing Nationwide strike embarked upon by members of the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN) over the non implementation of judicial financial autonomy as enshrined in the Constitution and I am also in support of the solidarity protest organized by the NIgerian Bar Association, Uyo Branch in support of the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria ,(JUSUN)’s call for financial autonomy for the Judiciary.

Ememobong Udoh Esq (Aguda)
Immediate past Secretary
NBA, Uyo Branch and Member, Presidential Committee on Correctional Service Reforms and Decongestion