The evaluation of any democracy as stable or unstable depends squarely on the ability of people at all levels to access equal justice, the Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, Minna Branch, Barrister Mohammed Waziri Abdulkadir, has observed.
He stated that the process of national development was multi-faceted, with democracy occupying a central role, noting that democracy can either better the lot of the greater majority or serve the narrow interests of a few individuals.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the annual law week of the Minna Branch of the NBA held at the Justice Idris Legbo Kutigi International Conference Centre in Minna, Barr Mohammed Waziri explained that peace, justice, and strong institutions form the foundation on which Nigeria can actualize its democratic goals.
According to the NBA Chairman, democracy transcends beyond the legitimacy of votes; it is also about the rule of law, upholding the principles of justice, and  accountability," adding that the role of the judiciary in promoting rule of law, justice, and accountability cannot be overemphasised.
The NBA Chairman expressed concern over the insinuation in some quarters that three groups of people determine our leaders in Nigeria, which, according to him, included the voters, the lawyers, and the judges.
"While this may sound hilarious, it underscores the significance of an effective and independent judicial system in the quest for good governance, especially at this moment when our nation is bedevilled with increasing threats of unsecurity, corruption, and electoral malpractice," he pointed out.
He said the Bar Week, with the theme "Moving Forward: Harmonising Judicial Independentness and Public Confidence for Sustainable Democracy in Nigeria,"  was aimed at having a robust discussion around the salient issues with a view to charting a way forward as they concern democratic development and the administration of justice.
In his remarks, the Governor of Niger State, Hon. Mohammed Umaru Bago, observed that judicial independence is not merely an abstract concept but a fundamental principle that safeguards the rights and freedoms of every Nigerian citizen.
The governor, who was represented by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Niger State, Nasir Mua'azu, explained that judicial independence provides an assurance that justice will be dispensed impartially, regardless of one's social status, political affiliation, or economic power.
"A truly independent judiciary acts as a check on the powers of the executive and legislative branches, maintaining the balance of power required for a functioning democracy," he noted.