In a statement posted on his X account on Monday, Obi criticised what he perceives as the increasing politicisation of institutions constitutionally mandated to remain independent and insulated from partisan interference.
Arguing that national prosperity hinges upon the primacy of institutional integrity over individual ambition, the former Anambra governor called for the immediate reversal of the court’s verdict.
“We must never sacrifice our sacred institutions on the altar of politics. Nations rise when institutions are stronger than individuals,” Obi asserted.
Drawing parallels to the contentious 2019 removal of former Chief Justice Walter Onnoghen, Obi noted that the most grievous damage inflicted by such actions is the pervasive perception of compromised neutrality. He stressed that sustainable economic growth is built on unwavering trust; while investors can hedge against security, policy, and market volatility, they are profoundly deterred by unpredictability in the rule of law and perceived judicial overreach.
“Today, many Nigerians have lost confidence in systems that should protect them. Businesses increasingly insist that their contracts be governed by foreign jurisdictions because they have greater confidence in those institutions than in our own,” he lamented.
Reaffirming his commitment to restoring the judiciary’s dignity and impartiality, Obi insisted that justice must remain accessible, fair, and universally respected. He also issued a rallying call to judges, senior advocates, and the broader legal profession to actively defend the rule of law and fortify the country’s democratic institutions against erosion.