Nigeria’s highest law officer, Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun in unhappy about the seeming low esteem accorded the judiciary and has expressed concern over persistent allegations of corruption, inefficiency, and bias in the judiciary despite ongoing efforts to improve the system.
At the opening of the 2025 hybrid refresher course for judges of superior courts, the CJ acknowledged the challenges facing the judiciary and their impact on public confidence.
Justice Kekere-Ekun emphasized that the judiciary’s authority depends on the trust and confidence of the public. She warned that without credibility, the judiciary’s ability to uphold justice and constitutional order would be compromised.
“Public trust is neither assumed nor conferred; it must be earned and safeguarded through judicial integrity, professionalism, transparency, and an unwavering commitment to justice,” she stated.
She urged judicial officers to uphold fairness, impartiality, and efficiency, stressing that not only must justice be done, but it must also be seen to be done.
Retired Justice Salisu Abdullahi, Administrator of the National Judicial Institute, highlighted the importance of the refresher course in strengthening public confidence in the judiciary.
“Trust in the judiciary is neither automatic nor enduring without deliberate action,” he said, noting that judicial officers must demonstrate integrity and diligence in their conduct.
The training, attended by judges from various courts, aims to address challenges affecting the judiciary and develop strategies to restore faith in the legal system.
The program is part of ongoing efforts to enhance the professionalism and accountability of judicial officers, ensuring that justice is delivered efficiently and fairly across the country.
Crediblenewsng.com
