Kekere-Ekun Implores NBA to Defend Judiciary Against Allegations of Corruption
Chief Justice of Nigeria, Honourable Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has called on the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) to rise to the defense of the nation’s judiciary, which has been plagued by frivolous petitions and baseless allegations of corruption.
The CJN’s statement, released by her Senior Special Assistant on Media, Tobi Soniyi, comes in response to concerns raised by members of the NBA Bar and Bench Forum regarding the need for greater protection for judicial officers.
According to Justice Kekere-Ekun, the majority of petitions filed against judges are without merit, lacking substantial evidence to support the claims of corruption. She lamented that some individuals file such petitions solely to intimidate and harass judges, causing them undue trauma and stress, even after they have been cleared of any wrongdoing.
The CJN emphasized the importance of holding judges accountable for their actions, but cautioned that any allegations of corruption must be supported by concrete evidence.
She encouraged individuals with genuine grievances to channel their concerns through the National Judicial Council (NJC), the body responsible for investigating and disciplining judges.
However, Justice Kekere-Ekun expressed disappointment that the NBA often remains silent in the face of frivolous allegations against judges, allowing the integrity of the judiciary to be tarnished.
She also confemned the practice of lawyers criticizing judges on television without first taking time to read and understand the court’s judgments.
In addition, the CJN urged senior counsel to take on a mentorship role, guiding young lawyers and helping them develop into disciplined and responsible members of the Bar.
This, she believes, will help to promote a culture of respect and professionalism within the legal community.
The Chairman of the NBA Bar and Bench Forum, Dr. Richard Oma Ahonaruogho, echoed the CJN’s concerns, warning against the dangers of filing frivolous petitions against judges.
He advised the NJC to implement a screening process to filter out baseless petitions, ensuring that only legitimate complaints are investigated.
Dr. Ahonaruogho also suggested that individuals who file frivolous petitions should be held accountable and face heavy costs.
Furthermore, the NBA Bar and Bench Forum Chairman sought the support of the CJN in promoting mutual respect between the Bar and the Bench, recognizing that a harmonious relationship between the two is essential for the effective administration of justice.
The CJN’s call to action has sparked a renewed sense of urgency within the legal community, with many lawyers and judges welcoming the opportunity to defend the integrity of the judiciary.
As the NBA and the NJC work together to address the issue of frivolous petitions, Nigerians can expect a more robust and efficient justice system, where the rule of law is upheld and the rights of all citizens are protected.
