Renowned Nigerian lawyer, human rights advocate, and former National Human Rights Commission chairman Chidi Anselm Odinkalu recently voiced his disappointment with Nigeria’s ranking in the World Justice Project’s (WJP) 2024 Rule of Law Index. Nigeria was ranked 120th out of 142 countries in the report, indicating a deterioration in the country’s respect for the rule of law.CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
In a tweet shared on his official X (formerly Twitter) account, Odinkalu remarked:
“In the global Rule of Law Index, Nigeria, which is supposedly under elected government, ranks much lower than its northern neighbor, Niger Republic.”
He concluded with humor, saying, “I laugh like Dele Farotimi.”
This comment underscores the gravity of Nigeria’s position in the index, especially when compared to neighboring countries.
The WJP’s Rule of Law Index assesses countries based on factors such as constraints on government powers, absence of corruption, open government, fundamental rights, order and security, regulatory enforcement, civil justice, and criminal justice.
Odinkalu’s reference to Dele Farotimi, a Nigerian lawyer and political activist known for his advocacy for justice and systemic reforms, highlights the shared concern among Nigerian activists regarding the nation’s legal and governance challenges.
Farotimi’s recent legal battles, including his arrest and detention over allegations of defamation and cyberstalking, have drawn widespread condemnation from human rights groups and activists, who view such actions as attempts to suppress dissent and stifle free speech.
The juxtaposition of Nigeria’s low ranking with that of Niger Republic, which holds a higher position in the index, serves as a stark reminder of the pressing need for comprehensive reforms to strengthen the rule of law and governance structures in Nigeria. Activists like Odinkalu and Farotimi continue to advocate for systemic changes to address these challenges.CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
