By Milcah Tanimu

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has harshly criticized retiring Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Hon. Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, calling his tenure the “most disappointing” in the nation’s judicial history.

HURIWA, through a statement by its National Coordinator Emmanuel Onwubiko, condemned Ariwoola’s leadership for what it described as nepotism, alleged corruption, and a disregard for justice and fairness.

The association highlighted several issues, including:

– *Nepotism in Appointments*: HURIWA pointed to the appointment of Ariwoola’s brother, Adebayo Lateef Ariwoola, as head of the audit department at the National Judicial Council (NJC). They argued this creates a conflict of interest and undermines the integrity of the NJC’s operations.

– *Family Involvement in the Judiciary*: The group also criticized Ariwoola for securing a judicial appointment for his son, Olukayode Ariwoola Jr., as a Judge of the Federal High Court. This move, they say, reflects a culture of nepotism that has worsened under his leadership.

– *Precedent of Nepotism*: HURIWA claims that Ariwoola’s tenure has set a troubling precedent, with other judicial leaders like Chief Judge of Abuja, Justice Husseini Baba-Yusuf, allegedly following suit by appointing family members and influential individuals.

HURIWA expressed concern that such practices have tainted the judicial appointment process and eroded public trust in the judiciary.