“Judicial Introspection: CJN, AGF, and Experts Call for Unity and Accountability in Nigeria’s Judiciary
The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has proposed holding conferences among judges to resolve conflicting rulings in courts of coordinate jurisdiction, particularly in the Court of Appeal. Justice Kekere-Ekun expressed concerns over the prevalence of inconsistent judgments on similar issues, attributing this to the absence of collaborative discussions among the judges before delivering reserved rulings.
Speaking at the 2024 Justices of the Court of Appeal’s annual conference in Abuja, the CJN strongly emphasized that, “holding conferences, exchanging opinions, and ideas on matters that come before us is extremely essential.” She urged the Court of Appeal’s justices to adopt this practice to enhance decision-making and consistency across panels, stressing that “several heads are better than one.”
Justice Kekere-Ekun, alongside Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) Lateef Fagbemi (SAN) and other legal experts, also condemned the rising tide of frivolous and unsubstantiated allegations against judges. They urged judges to ignore distractions and stay focused on their duties, warning that those who sought to undermine judicial independence would face justice. “For those who disparage the Judiciary, we will bring them to justice,” AGF Fagbemi pledged.
Former AGF Kanu Agabi (SAN) and the Chairman of the Body of Benchers (BOB), Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), also expressed deep concern over the ongoing denigration of the judiciary, highlighting the challenges judges face in maintaining integrity amid societal pressures.
During the conference, Fagbemi emphasized the critical role of the judiciary in sustaining democracy and noted the challenges posed by political interference and negative public opinion, especially on social media. He called for vigilance in defending judicial independence and ensuring accountability.
