**A Lesson on Accountability: Why Nigerian Judges Can't Be Above the Law** In Nigeria, the phrase "judge not, that you be not judged" has often been used to caution against judging others, especially those in positions of authority. However, this phrase must be applied in a way that respects the rule of law and the principles of accountability. This is evident in the case of Justice Donald Ikomi, a senior judge who was accused of murder in 1985. In a bizarre coincidence, the murder of Justice Ikomi's police orderly, Uanlie Agbede, occurred while the judge was presiding over the trial of notorious robber Kingsley Eweka, who was part of Lawrence Anini's gang. The case against Justice Ikomi was high-profile, and the military regime of General Ibrahim Babangida was keen to address the issue. The judge was relieved of his duties, and his trial began in December 1985. The case eventually made its way to the Supreme Court, which threw out the trial. However, if this case were to happen today, the outcome might be different. The standards of judicial conduct and ethics have evolved, but not necessarily for the better. The fact that the case against Justice Ikomi was dismissed suggests that the judiciary has become more insulated from accountability. This is a worrying trend, especially given the growing perception that Nigerian judges are above the law. The fact that Justice Ikomi's case was dismissed, despite the gravity of the allegations, sends a wrong signal to the public. It implies that judges can act with impunity, and that they are not subject to the same laws that apply to ordinary citizens. In reality, this is not the case. As the Bible verse suggests, judges will be judged based on the judgments they deliver. In Nigeria, this means that judges must be held accountable for their actions, and that they must be subject to the same laws that govern the rest of society. If the judiciary is to maintain its integrity and credibility, it must demonstrate its commitment to accountability and transparency. Ultimately, the case of Justice Ikomi serves as a reminder that no one, including judges, is above the law. The principles of accountability and transparency must be upheld, and those who violate these principles must be held to account. This is the only way to ensure that justice is served, and that the rule of law is upheld in Nigeria.