INDEPENDENCE OF THE JUDICIARY: THE NIGERIAN EXPERIENCE

Abstract

The independence of the judiciary is one topic which is recurrent in the Nigerian legal jurisprudence. There are controversies surrounding the extent of the independence of the judiciary in Nigeria especially in the light of recent happenings with respect to the office of the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN). These recent events have necessitated a critical evaluation of the judiciary and its independence. Thus, this article will highlight the structure of the judiciary and the role of the judiciary under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as Amended). The research will appraise the extent to which the independence of the judiciary has been secured and/or violated. More so, a brief recourse will be had to the practice in some foreign jurisdiction and how if necessary, the Nigerian judiciary can be improved learning from such foreign jurisdictions. Recommendations will be given as part of the conclusion of the study.