Breaking Barriers: How Justice Mabel Segun-Bello Became a Federal Judge Without Political Backing

Justice Mabel Segun-Bello, a distinguished Federal High Court judge in Nigeria, recently shed light on the challenging path to becoming a federal judge. Speaking at the 2024 Clarity Conference in Abuja, Segun-Bello revealed that typically, securing a position as a federal judge in Nigeria requires backing from the presidency or a political party. However, her own journey defied these expectations.

During her keynote address at the conference, themed “The Constellation: Gathering of Stars, By Stars and For Stars,” Segun-Bello shared her inspiring story of perseverance. She spoke candidly about the obstacles she faced, particularly coming from a disadvantaged background, and how her determination was key to overcoming them.

Segun-Bello’s rise to the federal judiciary was notable not only for its personal significance but also because it occurred without the political support that is often deemed essential for such appointments. “To become a federal judge, you need the backing of the presidency or support from a political party. I had neither,” she stated. Her experience challenges the conventional belief that political connections are crucial for achieving high judicial positions in Nigeria.

Reflecting on her background, Segun-Bello emphasized the impact of her early hardships. “You may come from a poverty-stricken background. That is a powerful condition, but you must have the will to rise above it. If I tell you where I come from, two things will happen: you will either think I’m lying or start crying. And remember, I’m not just a state judge; I’m a federal judge.”

Justice Segun-Bello’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the role of personal resolve and principles in overcoming systemic barriers. Her journey underscores the idea that while political backing may be a common route, it is not the only path to success in Nigeria’s judiciary.

This revelation from Justice Segun-Bello provides a new perspective on the process of becoming a federal judge and highlights the potential for breaking through conventional expectations with resilience and determination.