A photo capturing Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Olukayode Ariwoola GCON and National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Ganduje, exchanging pleasantries at the public presentation of legal luminaries Yusuf Ali’s books has sparked a debate online.
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In the trending photo, both are seen bowing to each other, leading to questions about the appropriateness of such a gesture. Critics argue that Ganduje, being the APC Chairman, holds a political position, and the CJN’s gesture might raise concerns about the judiciary’s impartiality.
Critics questioned if it was proper for the CJN to bow to a ruling party leader when Ganduje’s preferred Kano gubernatorial candidate is battling an election case at the Supreme Court as the photo could send signals of potential bias in the Supreme Court. Critics emphasize that the CJN should maintain independence and avoid perceived affiliations.
The photo was taken at the launch of law books authored by senior advocate Yusuf Ali in Abuja on November 16. .
Supporters dismissed objections saying Ganduje showed respect by shaking CJN’s hand with both hands. They added that customary greetings need not imply bias, and judiciary independence doesn’t bar CJN from attending public events alongside politicians.
However, opponents referenced a past video where a member representing Pankshin/Kanam/Kanke federal constituency of Plateau State in the House of Representatives, Yusuf Gagdi seemingly boasted about APC’s ability to influence Supreme Court decisions through connections.
The Kano election battle between APC’s Nasiru Gawuna and NNPP’s Abba Kabir-Yusuf is presently awaiting apex court judgment.
The book launch saw dignitaries like VP Kashim Shettima, Attorney General Lateef Fagbemi, former House Speaker Patricia Etteh and others alongside Ganduje and Ariwoola. Critics urged the CJN to be more circumspect in public dealings to preserve perception of Supreme Court’s neutrality.
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