The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, and the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), have issued a strong warning against frivolous complaints targeting judges.
Both officials emphasized that those making baseless allegations would face sanctions.
Speaking at the 2024 Justices of the Court of Appeal’s annual conference in Abuja, the CJN and AGF addressed growing concerns about the judiciary’s reputation.
The theme of the conference, Judicial Introspection, underscored the need for reflection and reform within the judiciary.
Justice Kekere-Ekun highlighted the negative public perception of the judiciary.
“There is a growing negative perception of the judiciary,” she stated. “We must all, individually and collectively, work towards changing this.”
She revealed that the National Judicial Council (NJC) has resolved to penalize those filing frivolous complaints.
“We are looking at ways to ensure that where frivolous allegations are made, there are consequences,” the CJN added.
She also expressed concern over conflicting judgments delivered by appellate courts.
“Conflicting decisions are of great concern,” she noted. “Many panels do not hold conferences to discuss reserved judgments, and this must change.”
The CJN urged presiding justices to prioritize collaboration, stating, “We are an appellate court for a reason—several heads are better than one.”
Justice Kekere-Ekun also acknowledged the judiciary’s achievements while pointing out persistent challenges.
“Cases backlog, funding constraints, and public perception of inefficiency are significant concerns,” she admitted.
She proposed leveraging technology and alternative dispute resolution mechanisms to improve efficiency.
“Through introspection, we can develop innovative strategies to tackle these issues internally,” the CJN affirmed.
AGF Vows to Pursue Critics of Judiciary
The Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, pledged to bring those disparaging the judiciary to justice.
“For those who are disparaging the judiciary, I can assure you they will be brought to justice,” Fagbemi declared.
He condemned political interference and social media criticism that threaten judicial independence.
“It is imperative that we remain vigilant and steadfast in our defense of judicial independence,” Fagbemi stated.
The AGF assured judicial officers of his unwavering support, promising to equip the judiciary with necessary resources.
Judiciary Faces Digital-Age Challenges
Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, President of the Court of Appeal, highlighted the unique challenges posed by the digital age.
She warned about the impact of cyberbullying, online harassment, and digital evidence on judicial processes.
“To navigate these complexities, regular intellectual upliftment is essential,” she stressed.
She called for continuous reviews of judicial practices to ensure fairness and efficiency in the digital age.
Justice Dongban-Mensem acknowledged the immense responsibility placed on judges.
“Judges occupy a position of paramount importance. Their decisions profoundly impact individuals, communities, and society at large,” she said.
Ex-AGF, Body of Benchers Decry Judiciary’s Vilification
Former AGF Kanu Agabi (SAN) and the Chairman of the Body of Benchers, Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), expressed dismay over the unjust denigration of the judiciary.
Agabi described the precarious environment in which Nigerian judges operate.
“Judges are functioning in a time when corruption has permeated every department of the nation,” he lamented.
He urged judges to remain steadfast despite the challenges of unpredictability and declining patriotism.
“Life is no longer sacred. Power and wealth have become everything, and life is nothing,” Agabi observed.
Awomolo argued that the faults of a few should not define the entire judiciary.
“It is we who tempt the judges, yet we condemn them when they succumb to these temptations,” Agabi added.
He called on the NJC to protect judges from undue vilification while disciplining erring members.
“The NJC should act as the mouthpiece of the judiciary and shield judges from unwarranted public attacks,” he said.
