Odinkalu Decries Governors’ Omission In Thanking Legal Teams After Supreme Court Wins, Lawyers Hint Backdoor Influence

Former Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission and vocal rights activist, Prof. Chidi Odinkalu, has critiqued Nigerian politicians (Governors] for failing to thank their legal teams following recent Supreme Court wins.

In a tweet, Odinkalu noted none of the newly affirmed officials acknowledged their counsel, instead reserving appreciation only for President Tinubu.

Quoting the lawyer, “these days, lawyers have become props in a pointless ritual where outcomes bear no relation to their efforts.”

Who noticed that none of the ppl recently affirmed in office by @SupremeCourtNg thought it fit to thank their lawyers. These days, lawyers in #Nigeria have become no more than props in a pointless performative ritual in which the outcomes bear no relationship to their effort. pic.twitter.com/olt0VUUSos

— Chidi Odinkalu, CGoF (@ChidiOdinkalu) January 14, 2024

Echoing this view, commentators state that with legal arguments now inconsequential, cases depend on political connections instead of substantive points of law.

Experts describe this trend as entrenching corruption by eroding lawyers’ role and satisfaction in achieving justice.

Some lawyers concur that sidelining counsel after court victories suggests backdoor influence rather than merit is behind favorable judgments.

However, they noted the Abia governor acknowledged his lawyers, indicating exceptions exist. The senior lawyers urged peers to find motivation in balancing the legal scales regardless of client gratitude.

While agreeing lawyers deserve their fees, experts spotlighted the larger issue – the future of Nigeria’s legal practice looks endangered if courtroom outcomes depend on “who one knows” instead of reasoned debate and evidence.

Recall that in three separate judgments the appellate court justices had voided the election of Governors Abba Yusuf, Caleb Mutfwang and DaudaLawal of Kano, Plateau and Zamfara states respectively on grounds of alleged unlawful nomination and sponsorship and deduction of alleged illegal votes.