The Court of Appeal in Abuja has discharged and acquitted former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Walter Onnoghen, from a conviction of false asset declaration by the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT). The appellate court overturned Onnoghen’s conviction, citing the resolution of key issues surrounding his trial.
In delivering the judgment, the Presiding Justice, Justice Abba Mohammed, adopted the settlement terms reached between the federal government and Onnoghen. This development concludes a high-profile case that has been the subject of public attention since Onnoghen’s initial suspension and conviction in 2019.
Justice Mohammed ordered that the former CJN’s four bank accounts, which had been previously frozen and marked for forfeiture as part of the judgment, be released back to him. The case involved allegations that Justice Onnoghen failed to properly declare these accounts among his assets while serving as CJN, which led to his prosecution by the CCT.
The judgment underscores an evolving position on the matter of judicial independence and asset declaration requirements for public officials. Onnoghen’s case had sparked debates over due process and allegations of political interference in judicial affairs, with some legal experts and analysts arguing that his prosecution may have been influenced by factors beyond the stated charges.
Shortly after the judgment, Adegboyega Awomolo, Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and Counsel to Onnoghen expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu and the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Lateef Fagbemi, for their roles in ensuring a resolution. Awomolo noted that the outcome represents a significant moment for both the judiciary and the principle of justice in Nigeria. He acknowledged the efforts made to restore Onnoghen’s dignity and reputation, which had been called into question during the prolonged legal process.
Onnoghen’s case highlighted the importance of fair treatment for judicial officers and the integrity of asset declaration processes within Nigeria’s public service. The resolution of this case may have implications for similar high-profile legal matters involving public officials, potentially influencing the approach of future prosecutions by the CCT and how such sensitive cases are handled within the justice system.
This verdict, some legal experts believe, may set a precedent for addressing potential procedural inconsistencies in asset declaration cases, as well as reinforcing judicial independence against perceived political pressures.
