Obiageli Ezekwesili, the former Minister of Education, has expressed her support for the controversial “All Eyes on the Judiciary” advert, stating that it is a positive move for the nation’s judiciary. According to Ezekwesili, the judiciary has always required citizens to demand transparency and accountability, given its important constitutional role.
Recalling recent events, the Federal Government ordered the removal of the “All Eyes on the Judiciary” billboards across the country, citing concerns that it could incite the public against the judiciary. In addition, the government dissolved the secretariat of the Advertising Standard Panel (ASP) due to its approval of the advert.
Nonetheless, in a post on her social media platform on Friday, Ezekwesili reiterated her focus on the Nigerian judiciary and expressed her delight in seeing many other citizens doing the same. She stated, “I absolutely have my eyes on the Nigerian Judiciary and I’m delighted to see many other citizens doing the same.”
Ezekwesili went on to say, “#AllEyesOnTheJudiciary is one of the best things that has happened to our Judiciary, the third arm of government, in recent times. Just like the other two arms, the Executive and the Legislature, the Judiciary has always relied on citizens to demand transparency and accountability, given its significant constitutional responsibility.”
Highlighting the importance of simple messaging, Ezekwesili shared, “One of the critical lessons you learn in Policy School is to always keep the message simple for your target audience. The Judiciary is receiving a message from citizens who recognize the importance of their country joining the league of nations that have, through unwavering adherence to democratic processes, built lasting institutions necessary for development.”
In conclusion, Ezekwesili emphasized the significance of maintaining focus on the judiciary and its crucial role in Nigeria’s progress. She concluded, “It’s #AllEyesOnTheJudiciary.”