In a move to restore public trust and integrity in the judiciary, Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, has pledged to take decisive action against judges who deliver misleading and conflicting judgments.
Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony of 22 new Appeal Court justices in Abuja, Justice Ariwoola emphasized the need for judges to uphold the highest standards of justice and integrity, warning that those who fail to do so will face sanctions.
The CJN’s warning comes on the heels of recent controversial judgments that have sparked widespread criticism and undermined public confidence in the judiciary.
While he didn’t mention specific judges, his remarks are seen as a clear reference to judges like Justice Inyang Ekwo, whose recent judgment in a Peoples Democratic Party case has been widely criticized.
Justice Ariwoola stressed that judges have a sacred duty to serve the Nigerian people, not themselves, and must deliver judgments that are fair, impartial, and free from sentiment or bias.
He acknowledged that some judges have failed to meet these expectations, delivering judgments that are “an embarrassment to our jurisprudence.”
The National Judicial Council (NJC) has already taken steps to address judicial misconduct, issuing warning letters to three judges, Justice Inyang Ekwo, Justice G. B. Brikins-Okolosi, and Justice Amina Shehu for various misconducts.
Ekwo and Brikins-Okolosi were barred from elevation to higher positions for two and three years, respectively.