The Kwara North Development Commission (KNDC) has called on the National Judicial Council (NJC) to investigate what it described as judicial overreach and alleged executive interference in Kwara State's judiciary.

The call follows the remand of Hon. Iliasu Ibrahim, Shola Muse, and Adesomowo Adegogo by Justice E.B. Mohammed on Tuesday over an alleged case of defamation against the elder brother of the governor and Mutawali of Ilorin, Dr. Alimi AbdulRazaq. The alleged offence reportedly occurred during a radio programme.

In a statement issued in Ilorin and signed by its President, Hon. Abdullahi Mansuma, and Publicity Secretary, Hajia Zainabu Seko, the commission expressed concern that the defendants were remanded in a Correctional Centre despite the constitutional presumption of innocence and their right to a fair hearing.

"The haste with which the court proceeded to remand the defendants raises serious questions about the impartiality of the presiding judge," the statement read.

The KNDC described the development as "a clear case of judicial overreach and executive interference in the judiciary," alleging that it amounted to a travesty of justice aimed at silencing critical voices in the state.

While acknowledging the importance of divergent views in a democratic society, the commission maintained that citizens should not face persecution for exercising their right to free speech.

It therefore urged the NJC to immediately investigate the matter and, if necessary, sanction the judge involved.

The group also called on civil society organisations, members of the legal community, and residents of the state to pay close attention to what it termed a growing threat to democratic principles.

Reaffirming its stance, the commission stated that although it remains open to differing opinions on issues affecting Kwara State, it would not stand by while individuals are allegedly targeted for expressing such views.