Afe Babalola: Livinus Uku, If You don’t want that, you pack your load and go back to your village

Speaking openly on SYMFONI TV, Significant shortcomings in Nigeria’s judicial system have been brought to light by the recent handling of the Farotimi abduction and detention case. Livinus Uku Esq., an American lawyer, claims that the court’s handling of the case reveals structural problems that require immediate change.CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>

Uku cited the judiciary’s failure to adhere to due process and protect individual rights, stating, “The judiciary’s role is to uphold justice, not to perpetuate injustice. In this case, their actions reflect a fundamental misunderstanding of the principles of fairness and accountability.”

Uku further criticized how Nigerian courts handle cases involving public figures. He argued that public figures, by virtue of their status, should be held to higher legal standards, particularly in defamation cases. “For example, my mother is a housewife in the village. Now, if you go and thrust her into the public light, she could bring a lawsuit for defamation and win easily,” Uku explained.

He contrasted this with public figures, adding, “But if you’re somebody like Afe Babalola, or all these pastors, or you call them whatever their titles, General Overseers, they are public figures. So, how can it be defamation? If you don’t want that, you pack your load and go back to your village. You resign as a Senior Advocate.”

Uku emphasized the need for a dual standard: “There should be two standards a heightened standard for all public figures. Remember, I’m not saying public officials, but public figures.”

In the aftermath of Farotimi’s ordeal, Uku called for urgent reforms in Nigeria’s judicial system, emphasizing the importance of transparency, accountability, and the protection of citizens’ rights. He argued that the judiciary must regain public trust and act as a true custodian of justice.

“This is not just about Farotimi; it’s about every Nigerian who looks to the judiciary for justice. Without reform, the judiciary risks losing its credibility and failing its constitutional mandate,” Uku concluded.

The Farotimi case serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for systemic change, a call that resonates far beyond the courtroom. CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>