According to report by Punch newspaper, although Nigeria’s Constitution does not recognise witchcraft or charms, debates have intensified following claims by some lawyers that they face alleged spiritual attacks while handling sensitive cases.
The issue gained attention after a viral video showed a lawyer appealing to litigants to stop targeting opposing counsel through spiritual means. He stressed that lawyers are only performing their professional duties and should not be subjected to such actions.
Some legal practitioners shared unusual experiences, including moments of confusion in court, sudden illness, or unexplained incidents during proceedings.
A retired judge also recounted experiencing strange occurrences while presiding over a murder case, which she believed was an attempt to distract her.
However, many legal experts strongly disagree with such claims. Human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju emphasised that Nigerian law is evidence based and does not recognise supernatural influence in judicial decisions.
Similarly, the Nigerian Bar Association President, Afam Osigwe, dismissed the idea, stating that “juju has no place in law.”
While physical threats and intimidation remain real concerns for lawyers, experts maintain that justice must rely strictly on facts, evidence, and the rule of law.
The sun
