Constitutional lawyer and human rights advocate, Professor Mike Ozekhome, SAN, has argued that Nigeria is practising what he terms “judocracy” rather than democracy.
Speaking at the 9th convocation ceremony of Gregory University Uturu in Abia State, Ozekhome blamed the judiciary for the distortion of democracy in Nigeria.
In his pre-convocation lecture titled “The Judiciary As The Final Arbiter of Electoral Outcomes: Aberrations And Judgments Without Justice”, Ozekhome coined the term “judocracy” to describe a system where elected officials, including Presidents, Governors, Senators, and Local Government leaders, are determined in the courts rather than through the ballot. He expressed regret that the judiciary, rather than helping to protect democracy, has instead become an accomplice in undermining the will of the people.
He said, “The judiciary is displacing the real will of the people as expressed through the ballot. That’s the situation in Nigeria.”
Ozekhome emphasized the need for a strong, independent judiciary free from external influence, whether from the executive or legislature. He stressed that the judiciary is the cornerstone of democracy, safeguarding the rule of law and the fundamental rights of the people. He also called for better remuneration and support for judges to ensure their independence and integrity.
While acknowledging the judiciary’s role in electoral matters, Ozekhome noted both praise and criticism of judicial oversight. Proponents argue that the courts act as impartial arbiters in election disputes, protecting democratic values. However, critics warn against judicial overreach, fearing that the judiciary may inadvertently undermine democracy by becoming a powerbroker.
In her address, the Vice Chancellor of Gregory University, Professor Cele Njoku, highlighted the institution’s growth, noting that all its programs are currently accredited. She also announced a new partnership with Sacred Heart University, USA, and continued collaboration with the Russian Friendship University for exchange programs.
The Chancellor, Okechukwu Ibe Jnr, urged the graduands to view their degrees not just as certificates but as tools for empowerment, encouraging them to be innovative and take risks. The Pro-Chancellor, Professor Augustine Uwakwe, reminded them that education is a key to unlocking opportunities and solving societal challenges.
At the convocation, 190 students graduated, with 16 earning First Class, 86 Second Class Upper, 86 Second Class Lower, and one Third Class. The overall best graduand, Awo Adutomvie Austine, with a CGPA of 4.81, was awarded N1 million by the university’s founder, Prof. Greg Ibe, in addition to several other prizes.
Honorary doctorates were awarded to former Minister for Power, Professor Barth Nnaji, and Professor Ogechi Anyaehie, who was conferred with a Professor Emeritus title.
Professor Nnaji praised the university’s investment in education, particularly in technology, science, and entrepreneurship. He encouraged the graduands to be resourceful and seek to create employment rather than depend on the limited job market. Ozekhome, Nnaji, and Orji Nwafor Orizu also announced endowment funds for outstanding students of the university.