The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has called on judges of lower courts to uphold their integrity and maintain the highest standards of ethics and professionalism in the discharge of their duties.
Speaking on Monday in Abuja at the induction of newly appointed magistrates and judges of Sharia, Area, and Customary Courts, the CJN — represented by Justice Chidiebere Uwa — emphasised that judicial independence is not only a constitutional requirement but also the foundation of public trust in the justice system.
“I urge you to guard your integrity jealously, be vigilant against corruption in any form, and let your conduct reflect the highest standards of ethics and professionalism,” she said.
“Avoid the perception of bias or undue interest in any matter before you.
Approach your duties with humility and a clear understanding of the immense trust Nigerians have placed in you.”
Justice Kekere-Ekun encouraged the newly inducted judicial officers to seek guidance from their more experienced colleagues, while stressing that final decisions must always reflect their own independent judgment.
“As you settle into your new roles, I urge you to embrace best practices in our courts, including appropriate consultations with senior colleagues. However, while guidance is invaluable, your decisions must be entirely your own — grounded in your evaluation of the law and the facts before you,” she said.
She further underscored the importance of timely and professional dispensation of justice, noting that delays continue to undermine the effective administration of justice.
“Persistent delays in trial processes, despite best efforts, still hamper the delivery of justice. Such delays risk eroding public confidence in the judiciary,” she warned.
“We must redouble efforts to adopt more efficient practices and foster a judicial culture that values expediency without compromising fairness.”
One such strategy, she noted, is the strategic use of Alternative Dispute Resolution mechanisms, which can offer faster and less adversarial pathways to justice.
Highlighting the importance of sound and contextually relevant decisions, the CJN added: “The quality of your judgments must reflect deep and sustained engagement with the law and precedent, as well as an appreciation of the socio-economic realities in which justice is sought. A combination of legal mastery and contextual awareness will enable you to deliver decisions that are not only legally sound but socially responsive.”
Also speaking at the event, the Administrator of the National Judicial Institute, retired Justice Salisu Abdullahi, reminded the new judges of the immense responsibility they bear.
“You hold the profound potential to either strengthen or, conversely, erode public perception of our entire judiciary. Let this serve as a constant reminder in your every action, deliberation, and decision,” he said
Justice Abdullahi noted that the institute would soon embark on an assessment tour to evaluate the impact of its training programmes on judicial officers.
He described the induction course as a vital step in preparing judges to fulfill their solemn responsibilities.
“Judicial efficiency and the quality of your rulings have far-reaching implications that go beyond mere speed or rushed judgments,” he said.
“Given your proximity to the grassroots, you will often have heavy caseloads. Strive to create a balance that ensures timely resolution of cases while upholding the highest standards of impartiality, fairness, and thoroughness.”
He added: “The positions you now occupy are of paramount importance within the very foundation of our judicial system.”
-Advertisement-
Grab our latest Magazine, "Ayodele Akintunde, SAN: Legal Titan Celebrates and Reflects on His Life Journey.". Get your order fast and stress free.
For more details about Newswire Law&Events Magazine, kindly reach out to us on 08039218044, 09070309355. Email: newswiremagazine@yahoo.co.uk. You will be glad you did
