The ongoing financial turmoil within the Ondo State judiciary has escalated into what many are now calling the Ondo judiciary crisis explained by recent budget cuts. The Gov Aiyedatiwa latest news regarding these significant reductions has sparked widespread concern among legal professionals and civil society alike. This development threatens not only the operational capacity of the state’s courts but also raises fundamental questions about the independence of the judicial arm of government in Nigeria’s democratic framework.
The severity of the situation is underscored by the drastic figures: the state government slashed the judiciary’s allocation from N17 billion in the 2025 budget to a mere N9.5 billion in the proposed 2026 budget. This represents a staggering cut of over 40 percent, a move that has been met with protests from judges and senior court officials who fear the long-term consequences for justice delivery and the rule of law within Ondo State. Such a substantial reduction inevitably impacts every facet of the judicial system, from personnel welfare to infrastructure development.
What is judicial independence in Nigeria? Judicial independence in Nigeria refers to the judiciary’s ability to perform its duties without undue influence from the executive or legislative arms of government, ensuring fair and impartial justice. It is a cornerstone of democracy, safeguarding citizens’ rights and upholding the constitution.
While the Ondo State government has publicly announced an 80 percent financial autonomy for the judiciary, this approval applies exclusively to recurrent expenditure. This crucial distinction means
