TheCable

Cyprian Edward-Ekpo, director-general (DG) of  the Institute of Law Research and Development of United Nations (ILAWDUN), US, says Nigeria will flourish if citizens have confidence in the judiciary.

In an interview with NAN on Thursday, Edward-Ekpo said Nigeria’s economy can grow and attract foreign direct investment (FDI) if the judicial system guarantees justice to every citizen.

“The image of Nigerian judiciary affects so many things like the economy, foreign direct investments, visa applications by Nigerians, how the citizens are respected in foreign lands, and development index,” Edward-Ekpo said.

“This is because the law stands as the central system of which all rights are asserted, controlled and achieved.

“Nigerians anywhere they are should be concerned that their legal system, courts and judgments of court are respected as sacrosanct.

“This will encourage investors, boost development, and reduce the incessant denial of travel visas to students and tourists from Nigeria.

“Anywhere there is confidence in the court system, development and respect flourish. Investors are sure their businesses are guaranteed.”

Edward-Ekpo said any country where the citizens and visitors have no hope in the judiciary rarely makes significant progress.

“So, my earlier request for judicial reform to the authorities was for the good image of the Nigerian judiciary,” he said.

Edward-Ekpo said his recent advice to President Bola Tinubu to review the process of appointing judges “had nothing to do with politics”.

“I am not a politician, I don’t live in Akwa Ibom, except for a few days of my childhood,” he said.

“The president and the NJC got the message. The only reason it was not a direct letter was because aides of people in authority in Nigeria always treat communications passage highly disparagingly.”