In a passionate and critical assessment, Jibrin Samuel Okutepa, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, has denounced the prevailing culture of impunity and lack of accountability within Nigeria’s societal framework.
Okutepa’s comments, delivered as a scathing critique, highlighted widespread concerns about the country’s erosion of ethics, governance, and the rule of law.
Addressing the prevalent societal absurdities and the absence of repercussions for misconduct, Okutepa pointed out that Nigeria seems to have deviated from the principles of orderliness stipulated by its laws.
He lamented the flagrant disregard for established norms across all sectors, from judiciary to law enforcement, politics, and citizenry.
He also highlighted the striking imbalance in the justice system, where stealing smaller amounts could attract more significant consequences than larger embezzlement.
The Senior Advocate’s condemnation extended to the compromised state of institutions entrusted with upholding justice and combating corruption.
He critiqued the infiltration of corruption within these very institutions meant to tackle such societal maladies, further eroding public trust and confidence.
Okutepa passionately called for a return to a society governed by the rule of law, advocating for a system that upholds justice impartially, irrespective of one’s status or connections.
His assertion stressed the vital role that genuine democracy founded on the rule of law plays in Nigeria’s progression and development.
“Those who have ideas to do what is right have no power to do it. Those who cannot change things positively have forced themselves on us. Can we please go back to the true rule of law, where things are done according to law, and when there are violations, the violators are punished accordingly?
“Until we return and practice the true rule of law, genuine democracy development will elude Nigeria. True democracy is built on the rule of law. There can be no true democracy where the judiciary is cornered and conquered by political class.
“Democracy in Nigeria is heading to a calamitous destination, and the politicians are the cause. Nigerians must rise up to defend democracy and the rule of law. That is the only way Nigeria can grow and develop,” he stated.
