At the 9th convocation ceremony of Gregory University Uturu in Abia State, constitutional lawyer and human rights advocate, Professor Mike Ozekhome, SAN, expressed grave concerns over Nigeria’s democratic process, arguing that the country is no longer practicing true democracy but rather what he coined as “judocracy.”
In his pre-convocation lecture titled “The Judiciary As The Final Arbiter of Electoral Outcomes: Aberrations And Judgments Without Justice”, Ozekhome criticized the judiciary for distorting the will of the people and displacing democratic outcomes. He lamented that elected officials, including Presidents, Governors, Senators, and Local Government leaders, were being determined in courts instead of through the ballot box. He cautioned that this trend is undermining the foundation of Nigeria’s democracy.
Ozekhome called for a robust and independent judiciary, free from any external influence, to protect the rule of law and safeguard the rights of citizens. He also advocated for better remuneration and support for judges to preserve their integrity and autonomy.
While acknowledging the judiciary’s important role in resolving electoral disputes, Ozekhome highlighted both the praise and criticism surrounding judicial oversight. While some defend the judiciary as an impartial body safeguarding democratic values, others warn that judicial overreach may inadvertently erode democracy.
The Vice Chancellor of Gregory University, Professor Cele Njoku, also addressed the gathering, celebrating the university’s achievements and growth. She announced new international partnerships, including a collaboration with Sacred Heart University in the USA and continued exchange programs with the Russian Friendship University.
At the ceremony, 190 students graduated, with Awo Adutomvie Austine emerging as the overall best graduand, earning a CGPA of 4.81. Austine received N1 million, as well as other prizes, from the university’s founder, Professor Greg Ibe.
In addition, honorary doctorates were awarded to former Minister for Power, Professor Barth Nnaji, and Professor Ogechi Anyaehie, who was conferred with the title of Professor Emeritus. Nnaji encouraged the graduands to use their degrees as tools for innovation and to pursue entrepreneurial ventures, creating employment in the process.
Ozekhome, Nnaji, and Orji Nwafor Orizu also announced endowment funds for exceptional students, further underscoring their commitment to fostering excellence and empowering future generations.
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