The Senate’s recent decision to sack the Chairman of the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT) has drawn sharp criticism from senior lawyers, who argue that the legislative body overstepped its constitutional bounds.
Legal experts have described the move as a misstep, highlighting that the power to remove a judicial officer like the CCT Chairman lies exclusively with the executive branch and the National Judicial Council (NJC).
They insist that the Senate’s actions undermine the principles of separation of powers enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution.
A prominent Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) remarked, “The Senate’s decision is not only legally flawed but also sets a dangerous precedent for political interference in the judiciary. Due process must be followed in such matters.”
Another senior lawyer pointed out that the CCT Chairman is protected under constitutional provisions that ensure the independence of judicial officers. “The Constitution is clear on how judicial officers can be removed. This unilateral action by the Senate is not justifiable,” he stated.
Critics have also raised concerns about the political undertones of the Senate’s decision, suggesting that it may have been influenced by ongoing tensions between the legislative and executive arms of government. Some legal experts argue that the sack could further strain intergovernmental relations and erode public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
In its defense, the Senate claimed that it acted in response to allegations of misconduct and inefficiency leveled against the CCT Chairman.
However, legal analysts argue that such allegations should be investigated through the appropriate constitutional channels, not by the legislature acting unilaterally.
The controversy has sparked a nationwide debate about the limits of legislative authority and the need to uphold judicial independence. As the issue continues to unfold, many Nigerians are calling for the Senate to reconsider its decision and allow due process to take its course.
