The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Sa'ad Abubakar, has raised a strong alarm over the declining fairness of Nigeria's justice system. Speaking at the Nigerian Bar Association's Annual General Conference in Enugu, he warned that corruption and inequality are tilting the courts in favor of the wealthy, leaving the poor helpless.

According to the Sultan, justice is now treated like a commodity that the rich can buy, while the poor face punishment without support. He explained that this unfairness not only weakens public trust but also fuels anger, mistrust, and the risk of violence in society. Once confidence in the judiciary is lost, many people may resort to self-help and lawlessness.

The Sultan urged lawyers and judges to put truth and fairness above personal or financial interests. He reminded legal practitioners that they hold the key to restoring trust in the system by leading with honesty, courage, and transparency. Only then, he said, will ordinary citizens begin to believe in justice again.

Experts and civil society groups have long warned that a justice system favoring the rich creates room for crime to thrive. It discourages investment, threatens national stability, and undermines democracy. A country where laws protect only the powerful cannot achieve long-term peace or development.

Reports also show that Nigerian prisons remain overcrowded, mostly with poor people awaiting trial. Many of them cannot afford bail or legal aid, while wealthy criminals walk free with little or no consequences.

The Sultan's message echoes repeated calls for urgent reforms. Analysts recommend transparent court processes, fair access to legal aid, stronger judicial oversight, and equal treatment for both the rich and the poor. Without these changes, justice in Nigeria risks becoming an illusion for millions.

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