*Raises Concerns Over Modification of Justice Flora Azinge’s Statement
*Constitutes Team to Examine Bribery Claims”
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The Nigerian Bar Association Section on Public Interest and Development Law (NBA-SPIDEL) has issued a statement addressing the allegations of an attempt by an unnamed Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) to bribe Honourable Justice Flora Azinge, the Chairman of the National and State Houses of Assembly Election Tribunal in Kano State.
In a press statement dated August 16, 2023, John Aikpokpo-Martins, Chairman, and Funmi Adeogun, Secretary, noted that Justice Flora Azinge has later amended her statement, prompting concerns regarding potential external influences on her decision.
The allegations came to light when Honourable Justice Flora Azinge openly expressed her dismay in court over an attempt by a Senior Advocate to bribe her and compromise the course of justice. She stated, “A Senior Advocate of Nigeria who has a pending case before me is attempting to bribe me. Money has been flying in this tribunal since yesterday. Whoever collects money on my behalf, God will punish that person and his generation yet unborn — to the fourth generation. They keep abusing judges, insulting us every day in the papers, in the media — that we are taking bribe. Let me repeat again that nobody should approach me.”
NBA-SPIDEL has commended Justice Flora Azinge for bringing attention to this issue and condemning the attempts to compromise the integrity of the tribunal through illicit practices. The organization strongly denounces any attempt to bribe judges or interfere with the administration of justice, noting that such actions are not only criminal but also violate the Rules of Professional Conduct for Legal Practitioners.
The section emphasizes that lawyers have a duty to uphold the rule of law, promote justice, and maintain a high standard of professional conduct. Therefore, NBA-SPIDEL calls on Justice Flora Azinge to substantiate her allegations by revealing the names of those involved in the attempted bribery. The organization argues that exposing the wrongdoers is necessary to maintain the sanctity of the legal profession and ensure that justice is upheld.
However, NBA-SPIDEL notes that Justice Flora Azinge has subsequently modified her statement, raising concerns about potential pressures influencing her decision. The organization asserts that keeping silent on the matter would allow malfeasance to persist.
In response to the situation, NBA-SPIDEL has announced its intention to investigate the allegations further. A team consisting of Kunle Edun (Warri Branch), Yakubu S. Bawa (Jos Branch), and Abiye Tam-George (Lagos Branch) has been constituted to lead the investigation. The team is expected to submit a report within the next 10 days.
As the legal profession stands at a critical juncture due to these allegations, NBA-SPIDEL underscores the importance of transparency, accountability, and adherence to ethical standards. The organization remains committed to safeguarding the integrity of the judiciary and preserving the nobility of the legal profession.
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