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The African Centre for Leadership, Strategy and Development (Centre LSD) on Sunday advocated for urgent reforms in the nation’s judicial system to regain its lost glory.
The Executive Director, Dr Otive Igbuzor,?made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja.
According to Igbuzor, there is need to engage in judicial reforms that will boost the confidence of the common man in the nation’s judicial system and ensure that its integrity is taken back into the system. “
“It is very unfortunate that some people, especially politically exposed persons have found a way of manipulating the judicial system in this country and I think it is a great shame for our emerging democracy, “ he said.
Igbuzor stressed the need for active participation of citizens in reform process of the legal system to prevent the political class from outright manipulation.
The reforms, he added, would enhance access to justice and speedy disposal of cases as well as efficient administration of justice.
He observed that the judiciary was facing challenges that if not addressed, would hinder the entrenchment of `rule of law’ and enthronement of justice.
Igbuzor also rated the anti corruption agencies low in their fight against corruption, pointing out that the recent reports by Transparency International? indicated that corruption was on the increase in the last few years.
The executive director said that the ongoing anti-graft war required efforts and commitment of all Nigerians.
“To fight corruption in any country goes beyond activities of only anti corruption agencies, it requires collective efforts of all and sundry, “ he said.
He urged anti corruption agencies to embark on awareness campaign on procurement and due process to?ensure that the system was more transparent and accountable. (NAN)