A new poll by Amnesty International has revealed deep public skepticism about the independence of Nigeria’s judiciary, with nearly 97 per cent of respondents saying they believe judges in the country are not free from external influence.
The poll, shared by Amnesty International Nigeria on social media, asked participants whether Nigerian judges are independent in carrying out their duties. An overwhelming majority of respondents answered “No,” suggesting widespread concern about the autonomy of the judicial system.
According to the results published by the rights organisation, only a small fraction of respondents expressed confidence that judges operate independently without pressure from political actors or other powerful interests.
Judicial independence is widely regarded as a cornerstone of democratic governance, ensuring that courts can make impartial decisions based solely on the law. Concerns over the issue have frequently surfaced in Nigeria following controversial rulings, particularly in politically sensitive cases.
Although the poll reflects public perception rather than a comprehensive scientific survey, it underscores growing calls from civil society groups for reforms aimed at strengthening transparency, accountability, and public confidence in the judiciary.
Advocates argue that improving the independence of the courts is crucial to safeguarding the rule of law and protecting citizens’ rights across the country.
