'PROTECTION OF OUR JUDICIARY IS THE FULCRUM OF DEMOCRACY,' SAYS GROUP

Statement by the Vanguard for the Independence of the Judiciary .

Vanguard for the Independence of the Judiciary Condemns False Narratives Against Edo State Chief Judge

Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria
12th June, 2026

The Vanguard for the Independence of the Judiciary has condemned recent attacks on the Honourable , the Chief Judge of Edo State, Hon. Justice Daniel Iyobosa Okungbowa.

In a statement issued today by its Convener, Douglas Ogbankwa, Esq., the Vanguard stated that “protecting the Chief Judge of Edo State is protecting the Edo State Judiciary against intrusive attacks from outside forces.”

The Vanguard emphasized that judicial independence is not a privilege for judges, but a right for citizens. It is the guarantee that justice will be dispensed without fear or favor, without influence from the executive, legislature, or mob opinion.

“Any attack on the Chief Judge is an attack on the institutional autonomy of the entire judiciary. When the head of the court is intimidated, every magistrate, every registrar, every litigant feels the tremor. A judiciary that cannot self-govern cannot protect the Constitution,” the statement said.

The Vanguard reiterated that Sections 6, 17(3), and 121 of the 1999 Constitution enshrine separation of powers. The NJC Guidelines exist precisely to ensure that discipline, appointment, and removal of judicial officers follow constitutional due process, not media trial or political pressure.

“A virile judiciary is a sine qua non for an egalitarian society. Without independent courts, rights exist only on paper. Democracy collapses when the gavel answers to the gallery instead of the law.The statement stressed that adherence to due process and proper procedure deserves commendation, not condemnation. “

The group further stated that internal self-regulation by the judiciary, guided by statutes and NJC rules, strengthens public trust more than external interference ever could. It is this self-correction mechanism that keeps the bench credible.

The Vanguard described Hon. Justice Daniel Iyobosa Okungbowa as “a quintessential exemplar of how to be a Chief Judge” — one who upholds procedure, defends institutional integrity, and administers justice without fear.

The Vanguard therefore urged all stakeholders, media, and citizens to resist peddling false narratives that undermine judicial independence. “Democracy stands or falls at the courtroom door. Protect the judiciary today, or weep for justice tomorrow.”

Signed:
Douglas Ogbankwa, Esq.
Convener, Vanguard for the Independence of the Judiciary