CJN Expresses Concern Over Reputation Damage Caused by a Few Judges

Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) laments that the actions of a few judges are tarnishing the judiciary’s reputation. Discover more about his concerns and the call for integrity within the judicial system.

Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), has voiced concerns that the reputation of the Nigerian judiciary is being marred by a few judges’ actions, even though many judges within the system are upright and dedicated.

During a public discourse titled “Ethics, Morality, and the Law,” held on Saturday to commemorate both its 30th anniversary and Justice Habeeb Adewale Abiru’s elevation to the Supreme Court, the Movement for Islamic Culture and Awareness (MICA) hosted an event where Justice Kekere-Ekun highlighted Nigeria’s judiciary’s skillfulness and dedication.

Nonetheless, she encouraged judges to remember that “as individuals, we are answerable to ourselves and to God.”

READ ALSO: Appeal Court Reverses Ex-CJN Onnoghen’s Conviction on Asset Declaration Charges

The Chief Justice of Nigeria highlighted the significance of public perception, pointing out that people watch how ethics, morality, and law operate together. He noted that for legal principles to be accepted by the public, there needs to be clarity, judicial independence, and a fair use of authority.

She believes that the justice system is influenced by the moral teachings of Abrahamic faiths, which stress integrity and righteousness. “The role of the legal practitioner within this framework deserves special consideration,” she said, noting that lawyers must navigate where law, ethics, and morality intersect.

“The lawyer, frequently viewed as both an antagonist and a protagonist in the quest for justice, must traverse a landscape where law, ethics, and morality converge,” she remarked. “This dual responsibility entails harmonizing legal texts with ethical principles to address moral and legal dilemmas that might appear conflicting. As a steward within the temple of justice, a lawyer’s dedication involves maintaining legal standards while promoting values that align with society’s ethical norms.”

Justice Kekere-Ekun concluded, “We have noted everything that has been mentioned. As highlighted by the Honourable Attorney General, it is regrettable that while most of our judges are knowledgeable, upright, courageous, and diligent—a few individuals tarnish our reputation.”