It appears justice favours the few in Nigeria. It is a system of favouritism! The recent arrest and detention of Comfort Emmason for allegedly assaulting an Ibom Air crew member has sparked a crucial conversation about Nigeria’s justice system. While it is essential to hold individuals accountable for their actions, the swift response in this case contrasts starkly with the handling of similar incidents involving high-profile figures.
The cases of Wasiu Ayinde and Senator Adams Oshiomhole, in which alleged misconduct was met with relative impunity, raise concerns about the consistency of justice in Nigeria. Regardless of social standing or power, everyone must be treated equally under the law if it is to be respected.
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The issue at hand is not about Comfort Emmason’s guilt or innocence but about the integrity of Nigeria’s justice system. Can it demonstrate fairness and impartiality or will it continue to be perceived as selective and biased?
To restore public trust, Nigeria’s institutions must prioritize consistency and transparency. Clear procedures for handling unruly passengers should be established and enforced uniformly, without fear or favour. Prosecutors must provide clear explanations for their decisions and the justice system must demonstrate its commitment to upholding the law, regardless of an individual’s status.
The Comfort Emmason matter presents an opportunity for Nigeria’s institutions to prove their dedication to justice and equality. Will they rise to the challenge and demonstrate that the law applies to all or will selective justice continue to undermine the system?
The outcome will not only determine Emmason’s fate but also test the credibility of Nigeria’s justice system. In other words, “the scale of justice, equality for all.” Justice should not favour a few. Justice must be for all as we continue to scrutinise Nigeria’s institutions. For now, it is a system of favouritism.
Tunji Oladejo writes from the University of Ibadan via oladejo65@gmail.com
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