By Erewunmi Peace

Legal practitioner Taiwo Ojumu has faulted former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo over his recent comments on the state of the judiciary, alleging that Obasanjo himself undermined judicial independence during his tenure from 1999 to 2007.

Speaking in an interview with News Central TV, Ojumu stated that the former president’s current criticisms of judicial corruption are ironic, given the record of his administration in the Fourth Republic.

“When I say statements, I mean, Baba, we remember, just like yesterday, when Baba Obasanjo was president of the country during the Fourth Republic from 1999 to 2007, we knew how his government undermined the judiciary. We knew the things that happened,” Ojumu said.

Ojumu emphasized that despite existing challenges, many judges in Nigeria remain honest and committed to delivering justice, urging Obasanjo to be cautious with his statements.

The remarks come after Obasanjo reportedly accused the judiciary of corruption and bias in recent public commentary, calling for reforms to restore public trust.

Obasanjo, who served as Nigeria’s president for two consecutive terms (1999–2007), has often been vocal on issues of governance since leaving office. However, critics argue that his administration was not free from controversies, particularly regarding political influence and the independence of democratic institutions.