PRESS RELEASE: AN INVESTIGATION MUST BE LAUNCHED INTO THE EMBARRASSING POLITICAL SONG PLAYED AT THE JUDGES’ CONFERENCE. | Chief Malcolm Emokiniovo Omirhobo

The recent incident at the last Judges’ Conference, where a political montage of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu—specifically the partisan chant “On Your Mandate We Shall Stand”—was played as the President exited the hall, is a disturbing and unacceptable breach of judicial decorum, neutrality, and institutional integrity.

The Judiciary is the last hope of the common man. It must not only be independent; it must be seen to be independent. The use of a partisan political anthem within a solemn judicial gathering undermines public confidence in the courts and raises uncomfortable questions regarding the creeping politicisation of the Bench.

For the avoidance of doubt: a Judges’ Conference is not a campaign rally. It is not a political event, nor is it a forum for the partisan celebration of any political figure. This shameful episode is a disgrace to the dignity of the Judiciary and an affront to judicial ethics, professionalism, and constitutional values.

Chief Malcolm Emokiniovo Omirhobo

I therefore call on:

1. The National Judicial Council (NJC)

• To immediately investigate:
• How such a partisan audio montage found its way into an event strictly meant for judicial officers, and who authorised it.
• Whether there was any political interference.
• To discipline all officials involved.

2. The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA)

• As the guardian of the rule of law, the NBA must:
• Conduct its own independent inquiry.
• Issue a public position condemning this politicisation.
• Demand accountability from the organisers and administrators responsible.

This incident is not a trivial matter. It strikes at the heart of judicial independence. A judiciary compromised—or perceived to be compromised—cannot deliver justice.

The Judiciary must remain sacred, impartial, and insulated from political theatrics. Those responsible for this reckless and embarrassing act must be identified and brought to book to safeguard the honour of the Bench.