Editorial
Checking Post-Election Corruption In The Judiciary
Amidst the euphoria over Nigeria’s attainment of 50 years of nationhood and the countless justifiable reasons for the pomp and pageantry witnessed all over the country on October 1, this year, many still think that a lot should have been done better.
A major reason for this under-achievement, as voiced by eminent Nigerians and foreigners alike, is the negative influence of corruption in the nation’s body polity, which sadly has also permeated the judicial system.
Under the current democratic dispensation which took off over a decade ago, some rulings and judgments from the Bench, especially as they affect election petitions, indeed, fell short of acceptable tenets of impartiality, equity and justice which have tended to impugn the integrity of the judiciary.
In fact, some retired Justices of the Supreme Court, have in recent times, expressed concern over the quality of some court rulings, and are known to have called on the National Judicial Council (NJC) to intervene.
Apparently disturbed by the systemic desecration of the justice system, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), last week, warned that it would henceforth expose corrupt judges and lawyers as a means of halting the obvious descent of the judiciary into disrepute, on account of pervasive corruption in the system.
The NBA, which served the warning through its Vice President, Mr. F.B. Ukiri at the special court sitting to mark the commencement of the Federal High Court Legal Year 2010/2011 in Port Harcourt, last week, said it would adopt several strategies including “detention by deception” to expose corrupt judicial officers.
While this may not be the first time the NBA or any other group of Nigerian professionals for that matter, would be expressing aversion to the inhibiting influence of corruption on national development, the new resolve by the Bar to expose corrupt judges and lawyers is one that calls for support and encouragement.
The judiciary, being the third arm of government after the legislative and the executive, is presumed to be the last hope of the citizen, in the resolution of dispute. If, therefore, an aggrieved litigant cannot get justice from the judiciary, due to the missteps of compromised judges and lawyers, then democracy seems doomed.
The choice of becoming member of the Bench should not just be seen by anyone as source of livelihood but a clarion call to the sacred temple of justice which demands sacrifice, honesty, impartiality and the fear of the Almighty God, in discharge of such constitutional duties.
This is why the fresh call for a corruption-free judiciary by the NBA is not only apt and imperative but also timely, particularly now that the 2011 general elections are fast approaching.
It is a painful fact that less than a year to the next elections, some complaints and litigations arising from the 2007 polls are still lingering in some courts, a tacit expression of the confusion created by many considerations, one of which is alleged corruption of a few members of the Bench through confusing, inconsistent, and even incoherent verdicts, not backed by evidence or judicial principles.
Sadly, what such miscarriage of justice succeeds in achieving is the enthronement of unpopular candidates who end up mortgaging national development for personal enrichment.
This is why, as the period of politicking sets in, with the likelihood of producing some unscrupulous politicians, lawyers and judges who, like always, may, once again, be tempted to subvert the will of the people, through legal confusion. ‘No’ to corruption should be the watchword.
We, therefore, urge the NBA, civil society organisations and all other stakeholders in the Nigeria project, to not only condemn such miscarriage but also be proactive, by not only exposing such dishonourable judges, corrupt lawyers and unscrupulous politicians but also bringing them to justice.
Furthermore, we recommend that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) should be involved in the screening of politicians now yearning for political offices in the 2011 elections at all levels. Such a measure, we believe, will ensure that only Nigerians with proven integrity, impeccable character, free from allegations bordering on corruption are cleared and that way, help reduce the incidences of electoral violence, thuggery and ballot box hijack and ensure free and fair elections.
However, since corruption in the judiciary is not limited to judicial officials and lawyers alone, there is also the need for all Nigerians to begin to purge themselves of this vice as the nation begins the march to her centenary anniversary. That is one of the ways to ensure that many more of the nation’s development potentials are not again wasted, as in the first 50 years, owing to corruption
Editorial
HIV, Transiting From Donor Dependence

The initial announcement by United States President, Donald Trump, to cut funding for international
HIV/AIDS initiatives sent shockwaves through the global health community. In Nigeria, a country facing a significant HIV/AIDS burden, the potential consequences were dire. However, the subsequent waiver granted by the administration has provided a lifeline for the millions of Nigerians who rely on the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) for their treatment and support.
PEPFAR has been an important partner in Nigeria’s fight against HIV/AIDS. Since its inception in 2003, PEPFAR has committed more than $7.8 billion to the country, catering to approximately 90 per cent of HIV treatment requirements. With this funding, Nigeria has been able to enhance its HIV prevention, treatment and support services and has witnessed a reduction in HIV/AIDS deaths.
The waiver granted by the Trump administration guarantees that PEPFAR’s life-saving medicines and medical services will continue to reach the needy. Antiretrovirals (ARVs) are the most common type of medicine used to treat HIV and reduce the virus’ spread. Through the provision of ARVs, PEPFAR helps prevent the spread of HIV and enhances the quality of life of those with the condition.
Although Nigeria was recently exempted from the requirement, the signs are evident: the country has to graduate from dependence on donor funds for its HIV/AIDS control programmes. Over the years, partners including the U.S. government have been central to the provision of treatment to people living with the virus. However, it is time for Nigeria to own its national response to HIV/AIDS.
Nigeria’s HIV/AIDS burden remains critical, accounting for 10 per cent of the global total. In 2023 alone, there were 75,000 new infections and 45,000 HIV-related deaths. The battle against Mother-to-Child Transmission remains challenging, with only 35 per cent of the target 75 per cent being met. Nearly 1.7 million Nigerian children have been orphaned due to HIV. Vulnerable populations, especially women and children, continue to disproportionately suffer.
To transition away from donor dependence, a multifaceted approach is necessary. Firstly, the country must increase its domestic financing for HIV/AIDS programmes. This can be accomplished through innovative funding mechanisms, such as leveraging public-private partnerships and exploring local revenue sources. Secondly, the government needs to strengthen its healthcare system to ensure equitable access to testing, treatment, and care. This involves expanding access to antiretroviral drugs, investing in community-based models, and addressing the stigma associated with HIV.
Thirdly, Nigeria must prioritise prevention efforts. This entails promoting condom use, providing comprehensive sexual education, and increasing awareness about the risks and modes of transmission. By focusing on prevention, the country can decrease the incidence of HIV infections and ultimately lessen the burden on its healthcare system.
Finally, Nigeria should develop a sustainable human resource strategy for its HIV/AIDS response. This involves training and equipping healthcare workers, engaging community volunteers, and empowering people living with HIV to advocate for their rights. A well-trained workforce is essential for delivering high-quality services and ensuring the long-term success of the response.
The transition beyond donor dependence is a complex but necessary journey for the country. By increasing domestic financing, strengthening healthcare systems, prioritising prevention, and investing in its human resources, the country can create a sustainable and effective response to HIV/AIDS. Also, the government should consider alternative funding mechanisms, such as increased domestic funding, public-private partnerships, and philanthropic initiatives. The time to act is now, for the well-being of present and future generations.
Nigeria’s National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) has made momentous strides in combating HIV/AIDS, including expanding access to testing, treatment, and education. However, challenges persist, hindering the effectiveness of these efforts.
One major obstacle is limited access to healthcare facilities, particularly in rural areas. This impedes timely diagnosis and treatment, reducing the likelihood of optimal outcomes for those living with HIV. Additionally, stigma surrounding the disease remains a formidable barrier, preventing individuals from seeking testing and care. Inadequate awareness campaigns further contribute to low testing rates and delayed diagnosis.
Addressing these challenges requires concerted action by the government and stakeholders. Allocation of adequate funding is crucial to expand healthcare infrastructure and ensure the availability of essential services. Moreover, targeted interventions to reduce stigma and promote awareness are vital for increasing testing and early detection.
Collaboration between civil society organisations and grassroots movements is also essential for advocating for protection of HIV funding. Advocacy campaigns can mobilise public support and pressure lawmakers to prioritise the fight against HIV/AIDS. By addressing these challenges and ensuring sustainable funding, Nigeria can depend less on donor countries, drastically reduce HIV transmission, and provide the necessary care to those affected by the disease.
Editorial
Israel-Gaza War: Sustaining The Ceasefire

Editorial
No To Hike In Telecom Tariffs

Nigerians are outraged by the Federal Government’s approval of a 50 per cent increase in telecommunications tariffs, with organised labour threatening to mobilise workers to boycott telecom services. The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) have described the upcoming tariff as outrageous, lamenting that it will worsen the already harsh living conditions of workers and the masses.
Similarly, the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) rejected the hike, stating that it was ill-timed and did not take into consideration the struggles of Nigerians. The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) also criticised the review, calling it an illegal, unconstitutional, and oppressive policy that undermines the fundamental rights and freedoms of Nigerians. It is a difficult moment for the industry.
Recall that the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) approved a 50 per cent increase in tariffs for telecom operators last Monday, instead of the 100 per cent raise that operators had requested. This decision quickly angered the consumers’ association, which criticised the government’s approval as not only punitive but also insensitive.
We wholeheartedly agree with the stance of labour and other groups on this very sensitive matter. We unequivocally condemn the 50 per cent increase in telecom tariffs. Though telecom operators cite higher operational costs and inflation as reasons for the hike, the timing and impact raise serious concerns in the current economic situation. It is a blatant attack on the well-being of the Nigerian worker and a betrayal of the people to corporate interests.
Telecommunication services are essential for daily communication, work, and access to information. However, the average Nigerian worker already spends approximately 10 per cent of their wages on telecom charges. For a worker earning the current minimum wage of N70,000, this means an increase from N7,000 to a staggering N10,500 per month or 15 per cent of their salary, a cost that is unsustainable.
This hike exemplifies the government’s apparent ease in prioritising corporate profits over citizens’ welfare. It is shocking that the government approved a 50 per cent tariff increase for telecom companies within a month, yet took nearly a year to approve the recent minimum wage for workers, despite the rising cost of living and inflation eroding purchasing power.
The questions are: When will the government stand up for the citizens it swore to protect? When will the National Assembly rise to its responsibility and hold the Executive accountable for policies that blatantly undermine the welfare of the majority? When will the common man finally heave a sigh of relief in Nigeria? We urge the government, the NCC, and the National Assembly to review the implementation of this ill-advised increase.
It is difficult to understand the state of mind of the managers of the nation’s economy. Sadly, these managers have alienated themselves from the reality of today. How can a government approve a 50 per cent hike in the tariff of telecom services when even the N70,000 minimum wage has been eroded by inflation, electricity tariff hikes, exorbitant fuel costs, transportation, and other social services?
Even if there is a need for an increase, why does it have to be 50 per cent? If, after dialogue, it is agreed that a raise is necessary, we should all consider a more reasonable increase rather than the 50 per cent hike. Fifty per cent is excessive and will only worsen the already harsh living conditions of workers, placing a heavier burden and more suffering on them and the general population.
The recognition of telecommunication services as essential components of modern society cannot be overstated. In an era characterised by rapid digital transformation, these services are fundamental not only for personal communication but also for facilitating broader socio-economic engagement. The proposed tariffs increase in the telecom sector raises critical concerns regarding equitable access to vital services that support communication, education, healthcare, and commerce.
In a democracy, the people should be the central focus of all government actions and policies. Every decision should aim to improve their quality of life. This plan must be carefully scrutinised with the welfare of citizens in mind. An increase in telecom tariffs will negatively impact many Nigerians, as the internet has become an essential tool for business, communication, and daily activities.
The Tide calls for the immediate suspension of the 50 per cent hike in tariffs. Instead, we recommend a more reasonable adjustment of a maximum of 10 per cent, which balances industry sustainability with the current economic realities in the country. We also demand that the NCC engages in genuine, inclusive consultations with consumer advocacy groups, civil society organisations, and other grassroots stakeholders before implementing any tariff adjustments.
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