Reps Urge Law Enforcement Agencies to Investigate Threats and Intimidation Against Judicial Officers

The House of Representatives has called on relevant law enforcement agencies to investigate credible reports of threats, harassment, incitement to violence and other unlawful attempts to intimidate judicial officers, and to ensure that appropriate legal action is taken where offences are established.

The call followed a motion by Representative Ademorin Kuye on the need to safeguard judicial independence and protect judicial officers from unwarranted intimidation, harassment and public vilification through social media and broadcasting networks.

The House said it recognises the fundamental distinction between legitimate criticism of a judgment and personal attacks, threats, harassment or intimidation intended to undermine the integrity and independence of the judicial officer who delivered it.

Lawmakers expressed concern that social media platforms, online publications and broadcasting networks are increasingly being used to circulate unverified allegations, misleading interpretations and inflammatory commentary about judicial proceedings and judgments, sometimes without proper examination of the court records, evidence, legal arguments or reasoning behind the decisions.

They also raised concern that sustained campaigns of intimidation, harassment and personal vilification against judicial officers could weaken public confidence in the Judiciary, expose judges to undue pressure and undermine the constitutional principle of separation of powers.