POLITICAL INFLUENCE AND ADMINISTRATION OF JUSTICE IN SOUTH EAST, NIGERIA

This study examined the impact of political influence on the administration of justice in South East Nigeria, focusing on its effects on judicial independence, timeliness of case resolution, and accessibility of justice. Using a descriptive survey design, the population of the study was 11377700, the sample size of 592 was determined through the use of Taro Yamane’s formula. Data were collected from legal practitioners, court officials, and civil society representatives across selected states in the region. The data were analysed using means, and standard deviation while hypotheses were tested using One Paired sample t-test. The findings revealed that political interference significantly undermines the independence of the judiciary, delays the resolution of cases, and restricts citizens’ access to justice. The study concluded that political influence exerts a profound and detrimental effect on the administration of justice in South East, Nigeria, particularly in terms of accessibility of justice, independence of the judiciary, and timeliness of case resolution. It recommends institutional reforms to strengthen judicial autonomy, enhance case management efficiency, and insulate court processes from political manipulation. The implications of these findings underscore the urgent need for policies and practices that safeguard the rule of law and uphold justice without fear or favor in the region.