No basis for condemning judges’ arrest – Ex-NBA Chairman

Mr. Jonathan Taidi, a former Chairman of Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), Minna Branch, on Monday said there was no basis for condemning the Department of State Security Service (DSS) over recent arrest of judges.

Taidi told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Minna that the DSS acted within the realm of the law.

He challenged those criticizing the action, to show any court order which declared the DSS action illegal.

He explained that from information available in public domain, the DSS obtained valid search warrants before conducting the search on the judges’ premises.

“Why are we condemning the DSS when they are in possession of valid search warrants,” he queried.

The former NBA chairman stressed that the affected judges have a moral burden to establish their innocence before members of the general public.

Taidi insisted that the judges must strive to defend their reputation and integrity, so as to insulate the judicial institution from ridicule.

He advocated for the strengthening of disciplinary mechanism, to enhance transparency in judicial service.

The urged judges to be transparent and ensure fair and just determination of cases, to restore confidence of Nigerians in the judiciary