Timing of Onnoghen’s suspension gives cause for concern – UK government

The United Kingdom has expressed concern over the suspension of Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Walter Onnoghen, saying the timing – three weeks before the presidential election – gives cause for concern.

In a statement released by the British High Commission in Nigeria, the UK government says the suspension risks affecting both domestic and international perceptions on the credibility of the forthcoming elections. Read the statement below

The British High Commission expresses serious concern over the suspension of the Chief Justice of Nigeria. We have heard a wide range of credible and independent voices, including in the Nigerian legal profession and civil society, who have expressed concern over the constitutionality of the executive branch’s suspension of the chief officer of the judiciary.

We respect Nigeria’s sovereign authority and its right to adjudicate on constitutional provisions but as friends of the Nigerian people, we are compelled to observe that the timing of this action, so close to national elections, gives cause for concern. It risks affecting both domestic and international perceptions on the credibility of the forthcoming elections. We, along with other members of the international community, are following developments closely.

We encourage all actors to maintain calm and address the concerns raised by this development through due process, demonstrating their commitment to respecting the constitution and the impartial administration of the rule of law. We further urge them to take steps to ensure that elections take place in an environment conducive to a free, fair and peaceful process.