Although the court typically refrains from commenting on social media misinformation, it felt compelled to respond due to the inclusion of the Chief Judge’s image, which could damage the reputation of the judiciary. The court issued a stern warning to content creators and social media users against spreading unverified information that could mislead the public or erode confidence in the justice system. It emphasized that the integrity and dignity of judges, as well as the institution of the High Court of Justice in Kogi State, must not be compromised by false narratives.
The clarification follows recent legal developments involving the NDC, which had been seeking registration with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). In June, the Federal High Court in Lokoja set aside its earlier judgment that had directed INEC to register the party, ruling that the original case was procedurally flawed due to the absence of interested parties in the suit. Despite this, the NDC maintained that no court had ordered its deregistration and affirmed that it had appealed the decision and filed for a stay of execution. The party continues to assert its status as a legally recognized political entity pending the outcome of its appeal.
The Kogi State High Court’s statement serves as a reminder of the importance of verifying information before sharing it, especially when it involves sensitive institutions like the judiciary. As Nigeria’s political landscape remains dynamic, accurate reporting and responsible social media use are essential to maintaining public trust in democratic institutions. The court’s intervention underscores its commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that justice is administered fairly and without fear or favour.
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