A prominent human rights lawyer, Barrister Christopher Chidera, has called for disciplinary action against certain justices of the Nigerian Court of Appeal over their alleged misuse of ex parte orders to uphold the proscription of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). Chidera described the actions as a grave violation of judicial integrity and an abuse of legal procedures.
Speaking in Abuja on Tuesday, Chidera warned that the reckless application of ex parte orders—judicial rulings made without informing the opposing party—has become a dangerous tool for political manipulation and injustice in Nigeria.
“No one is above the law—not even those who wear judicial robes,” Chidera stated, emphasizing the need for accountability across all levels of the judiciary.
He specifically referenced the controversial ex parte order issued by the late Justice Abdul Kafarati, which labeled IPOB as a terrorist organization. According to Chidera, the appellate judges who upheld that decision must face the same disciplinary actions previously imposed on judges like Justice Inyang Ekwo, who was suspended for misconduct.
Chidera also praised Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, for her firm stance on judicial reforms, urging her and the National Judicial Council (NJC) to extend sanctions to any judges who misuse ex parte rulings for political or personal gain.
Highlighting a Federal High Court ruling from 2017, Chidera pointed out that IPOB was never declared illegal by any substantial legal judgment. “Only an intellectual buffoon would label IPOB as proscribed based on a flimsy **ex parte** decree issued without evidence,” he added.
He accused past administrations, particularly under President Muhammadu Buhari, of weaponizing secret court orders to silence opposition and manipulate the legal process.
Recent actions by the NJC have seen several judges, including Justices Jane Inyang and Aminu Baffa Aliyu, suspended for similar abuses involving ex parte rulings that violated due process and harmed litigants.
“The courts must not be allowed to become playgrounds for corrupt judges,” Chidera warned. “It’s time for a serious cleanup to restore public trust.”
He concluded by urging lawyers, civil society, and the international community to stand against judicial tyranny and protect the principles of justice and fairness in Nigeria.
