Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Olukayode Ariwoola has appointed his younger brother, Adebayo Ariwoola, as the new auditor for the National Judicial Council (NJC).

The appointment places the CJN’s brother as head of the internal audit unit responsible for ensuring financial integrity at the NJC, the body that oversees disciplinary issues and policies for judicial officers in Nigeria.

Critics, including Chidi Odinkalu, have pointed out the familial connections within the Ariwoola judicial family tree, emphasizing that such relationships could compromise the integrity and independence of the NJC’s oversight unit. The CJN’s nephew is a Justice of the Court of Appeal, and his son is a Judge of the Federal High Court, both sworn in by the CJN.

Chido Onumah, an anti-corruption campaigner, stressed the importance of transparency, expressing doubts about the younger Ariwoola’s ability to act independently from his older brother’s interests. The appointment has amplified concerns over potential conflicts of interest and has prompted calls for the CJN and the NJC to address the issue transparently.

Public affairs analyst Lanre Suraj acknowledged the complexity of the situation, urging both the CJN and the NJC to demonstrate more respect for the conflict of interest that is evident in the appointment.

The CJN has come under fire amid a turbulent period between the judiciary and public opinion. Recent court rulings on issues central to Nigeria’s democracy have been marked by dismissal of public criticism.

“We have seen the corruption of due process and public institutions on many fronts. The fact that the auditor could easily become his brother’s accomplice should there be an infringement or abuse of power is not far-fetched,” said civil society activist Juwon Sanyaolu.

The controversy coincides with a turbulent phase in the relationship between the judiciary and the public. Calls for transparency and accountability within the judiciary are growing, with demands for clarification on financial planning, expenditures, and working conditions for judges.

As concerns linger over potential conflicts of interest, critics are urging the CJN and the NJC to address the matter to maintain public trust in the judiciary’s integrity.

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