A fresh wave of public outrage has erupted after a viral video showed Nigerian judges standing and singing the political chorus “On your mandate” during the 2025 Nigerian Judges Conference.
The incident, filmed by attendees and shared widely online, has sparked debate over judicial neutrality in a country where the independence of the judiciary remains a sensitive national concern.
The viral clip was first shared by journalist Emma Ik Umeh, who described the moment as baffling and inappropriate for a body expected to remain impartial in all political matters.
Critics argue that the display undermines the sanctity of the judiciary, a constitutionally sacrosanct institution meant to adjudicate disputes between citizens and the state without bias.
Many Nigerians have expressed shock, calling it “a disgrace,” “a dangerous sign,” and “a national embarrassment.”
Authorities have not yet issued an official statement regarding the incident.
