Femi Falana, SAN, a human rights attorney, has formally asked Justice John Tsoho, the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, to transfer a lawsuit concerning the Rivers State House of Assembly to the Port Harcourt Division. Martin Amaewhule’s side filed the lawsuit in an attempt to stop the withholding of monies intended for Rivers State local governments…. CLICK TO READ THE FULL NEWS HERE▶️▶️
Initially assigned to Justice Emeka Nwite and later to Justice Joyce Abdulmalik in Abuja, Falana’s law firm argues that the Port Harcourt Division is better suited for this case due to the local jurisdiction, as the defendants have offices there, and many involved parties reside in the area.
In a letter dated October 25, 2024, the firm expressed concerns about potential bias in the Abuja division, citing recent comments by Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike regarding plans to construct housing for judges in Abuja.
According to Vanguard, Falana’s firm argues this could improperly influence judicial outcomes, contravening the constitutional guarantees of independence and impartiality.
The letter emphasizes that the judiciary should maintain financial autonomy, noting that the National Judicial Council is responsible for housing judges.
Falana’s request highlights the importance of judicial integrity and the necessity of appropriate venue selection for cases of significant public interest.CLICK TO READ THE FULL NEWS HERE▶️▶️
