Wike’s photo with Supreme Court Justice Agim after ruling against Fubara: Apex Court reacts

The Supreme Court of Nigeria has rejected allegations of judiciary manipulation after a photo surfaced of Justice Emmanuel Agim with Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, at the University of Calabar’s convocation ceremony on March 22.

The image sparked criticism, particularly in light of Justice Agim’s recent ruling against Governor Siminalayi Fubara in the Rivers State House of Assembly case.

A statement issued on Monday, Mr. Akande Festus, the apex court’s Director of Information and Public Relations, clarified that Justice Agim attended the event as an honouree and alumnus, and also received an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Law from the university.

Festus explained that Justice Agim’s participation was entirely independent, not representing any government ministry or department.

“In light of the reports circulating on social media and other news platforms, we wish to clarify the circumstances surrounding the attendance of Hon. Justice Emmanuel Akomaye Agim of the Supreme Court of Nigeria at the convocation ceremony of the University of Calabar on Saturday, 22nd March 2025.

“It has come to our attention that misleading information has emerged, suggesting that Hon. Justice Emmanuel Agim accompanied the Hon. Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Mr Nyesom Wike, to the ceremony. We hereby dispel this false narrative.

“He was recognised for his significant contributions to the legal profession, which reflect his commitment to justice, integrity, and the rule of law, serving as a model for aspiring legal professionals and students alike,” he stated.

According to the spokesman, Justice Agim was initially scheduled to attend the burial ceremony of Justice Stanley Alagoa in Bayelsa State alongside other Supreme Court Justices, but he sought permission to attend the University of Calabar convocation instead.

“Any insinuation to the contrary is not only inaccurate but undermines the judicial independence that is crucial to our democracy.

“We encourage the public and media to verify information through credible sources before sharing or publishing, to prevent the spread of misinformation,” the statement said.