Corruption is deeply rooted in Nigeria, says retired Supreme Court Justice Rhodes-Vivour
Justice Olabode RhodesVivour who retired from the Supreme Court on Monday has lamented the level of corruption in Nigeria saying it is still deeply rooted in the country.
Rhodes-Vivour also canvassed an overhaul of the electoral law to check electoral malpractices that have become an obstacle to the popular will of the electorates.
The apex court Justice who bowed out of the bench on attaining 70 years yesterday pleaded that corruption must be tackled headlong through genuine efforts so as to make life more meaningful for the citizenry.
At a valedictory court session held in his honour at the Supreme Court complex, Justice Rhodes-Vivour was emphatic that Nigeria is no exception when it comes to corruption adding that what should be done is to reduce it to the barest minimum.
“Corruption exists in all the countries of the world. Nigeria is no exception. What should be done is to reduce it drastically thereby making our dear country an exception by building credible and transparent systems” Justice Rhodes-Vivour stated.
The jurist also faulted the conduct of elections in the country, lamenting they are protracted with petitions and suits because the stakes are too high. Justice Rhodes-Vivour noted that most elections are usually resolved by the courts simply because most politicians are never satisfied with the results announced by the electoral umpire.
As a way out, he renewed his appeal that the country’s Electoral Act be amended to shift the burden of proof to the Independent National Electoral Commission to prove that it conducted a fair and reasonable election.
Also speaking at the court session, the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Ibrahim Muhammad described Rhodes-Vivour as “Affable brother Justice” who diligently and meticulously offered unquantifiable services to Nigeria and humanity.
“We are all here today to felicitate with an accomplished jurisprudential iconoclast that has offered the best of his intellect to the advancement of the legal profession through his several years of inimitable adjudications” the CJN stated.
According to the CJN, “His Lordship is a rare gem and unblemished symbol of humility and piety.
“His proficiency in the dispensation of justice, which is anchored on his mastery of the law, presents him as a man of honour and scholarship.
“His judgments are not only incisive but also analytical and opulent by all standards.
“His robust contributions to the development of our jurisprudence are inviolable and fascinating.
“His impeccable attention to details in every matter before him is alluring and salutary as well,” the CJN said.
