ONITSHA: The unfortunate and dishonourable drama witnessed aboard an Ibom Air flight has once again exposed the double standards in our justice system and the inadequacies of our security operatives in acting decently and in a civilised manner.
I begin by sincerely apologising to the Ibom Air crew who were assaulted
by Miss Comfort Emmanson. As a society, we must learn and uphold good conduct, as it is a true measure of success and decent living.
However, I must also strongly condemn the dehumanising treatment meted out to this young woman. Stripping her publicly was not only unnecessary but also represented the height of rascality and abuse by our agencies.
It is unacceptable that she was hurriedly taken to court and remanded, while someone who visibly delayed a plane’s departure putting hundreds of lives at risk remains at large, with government agencies and some state officials even calling for him to be forgiven.
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This case is not merely about one young woman; it is about the double standards that continue to poison our justice system.
Justice in Nigeria must never be about who is poor or powerless versus who has influence or access to those in authority.
While Ms. Comfort Emmanson sits in jail, the other offender, whose actions were arguably more severe, has not been held to the same standard. He has neither been arrested nor arraigned in any court.
We must build a country where justice is fair, equal, and not selectively applied especially against women who are perceived as weaker.
Ms. Emmanson’s offence pales in comparison to the crimes committed daily by individuals parading themselves as excellencies while looting public funds with impunity.
These individuals have never been stripped or humiliated in the name of justice.
The selective targeting of the poor and less privileged must end. If justice must be served, it should be served to all and it must be served fairly.
The Minister of Aviation and other relevant authorities owe Nigerians an explanation for these glaring double standards.
Justice must be just, or it is nothing at all. The rule of law, based on fairness for all, must remain the guidepost of our democracy.
A new Nigeria is possible. — PO
