Federal High Court Judge in Kano, Justice Simon Amobeda, has issued a stern warning against attempts to influence judicial proceedings under his jurisdiction.
Speaking at an open court session, Justice Amobeda confronted Usman Umar Fari, Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Kano chapter and legal counsel for the state’s Anti-Corruption Commission.
He expressed concern over alleged attempts by the Chairman of Kano Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission, Muhuyi Magaji Rimin-Gado, to interfere with the course of justice.
Amobeda disclosed that multiple petitions had been filed against him before the National Judicial Council (NJC), accusing him of biased judgments and undue delays in delivering rulings.
He vehemently defended his judicial independence, emphasizing that his decisions are based solely on factual evidence before him, without favoring any party’s interests.
“I am not a state high court Judge; I am a Federal high court Judge, appointed by God. I refuse to be intimidated or swayed,” Justice Amobeda declared. He cited instances where his landmark rulings, such as the relocation of the Sabon Gari drug market, faced external pressures but remained steadfast in upholding the law.
Amobeda accused the Anti-Corruption Commission of disregarding court orders and warned against undermining the judiciary’s integrity. He criticized the agency’s actions as exceeding legal bounds and urged legislative amendments to address such issues.
“I am resolute in my duty and will continue to uphold justice without fear or favor,” Justice Amobeda affirmed. He stressed the judiciary’s accountability to uphold rights and maintain order, dismissing attempts to tarnish its reputation.
Efforts to reach Chairman Muhyi Magaji Rimin-Gado for comment were unsuccessful, with a spokesperson from the Anti-Graft Agency declining to speak due to ongoing proceedings before the NJC.
KANO TIMES