The Rule of Law in a Military Government — An Appraisal

Abstract

I would like to preface this lecture with a quotation from the present Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon. Justice M. L. Uwais, CON on the importance of the observance of the principles of the Rule of Law by all governments and the effects of its disregard; I quote:

“If Governments treat court orders/judgements with levity and contempt, the confidence of the citizens in the courts will be seriously eroded and the effect of that will be the beginning of anarchy in replacement of the Rule of Law.”

There is no doubt that there has always been some traces of unreasonableness or arbitrariness in the action of man or governments. Even in the home or in small communities those who find themselves in position of leadership/authority do exhibit traits of abuse of power and often take unkindly to any attempt to limit their authority or power, especially if they are invested with absolute authority like the military in modern government. But the principles of the Rule of Law however emphasise the fact that both the ruler and the ruled are subject to law even in a military dictatorship, hence the reason for this discourse.