A Nigerian legal practitioner has criticized the nation’s justice system, describing it as unfair and inconsistent in its treatment of citizens. The lawyer made the remarks while reacting to the continued detention and conviction of separatist leader Nnamdi Kanu, contrasted with the freedom enjoyed by controversial Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi.
According to the lawyer, the situation reflects what he called “a troubling pattern of selective justice,” where individuals facing serious allegations appear to receive different levels of scrutiny depending on their identity, affiliations, or political relevance. He argued that the law should be applied uniformly and that unequal enforcement undermines public trust in national institutions.
The lawyer expressed concern that while Kanu has faced arrest, prosecution, and imprisonment over charges related to agitation and alleged security threats, other influential figures—such as Sheikh Gumi—have not been subjected to the same legal attention despite widespread public criticism of Gumi’s engagements with armed groups in northern Nigeria. He stressed that even if allegations differ, both men operate in highly sensitive national contexts that demand transparency and fairness from law enforcement agencies.
He further stated that the appearance of selective enforcement has fueled public division, contributed to ethnic and regional tension, and created a perception that justice in Nigeria is influenced by political considerations. The lawyer called on the federal government and relevant authorities to apply the law uniformly and to ensure that investigations into any individual’s actions are handled without bias.
In his remarks, he urged legal bodies, human rights organizations, and civil society groups to continue demanding accountability and equal treatment for all citizens. He also appealed for reforms that would strengthen the independence of investigative agencies and courts in order to restore confidence in the justice system.
The comments have sparked discussions in various political and legal circles, with many Nigerians expressing mixed reactions. Some agree that disparities exist in the way different individuals are treated, while others argue that each case should be evaluated based on specific accusations and evidence.
For now, the public debate continues as calls grow louder for a justice system perceived as balanced, transparent, and fair to all, regardless of ethnicity, influence, or ideology.