Nigeria’s independent institutions face major threats

Abstract

Significance Onnoghen was suspended by President Muhammadu Buhari in January after the chief justice's indictment over the alleged non-declaration of assets in an apparently politically-motivated case. Meanwhile, Buhari’s principal challenger in last February’s presidential election, former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar of the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP), is still challenging the poll result. Impacts Public interest in governance reforms could wane, with a shift to ensuring stability over advocating change. The military and security services will face growing scrutiny and criticism over their increased politicisation. Intensified leadership divisions within the ruling APC could increasingly frustrate Buhari’s agenda during his second term. A mooted probe of the army’s role in the recent elections is unlikely to result in any major sanctions. Buhari may propose a consensus option for the Senate presidency but could face internal APC opposition.