Your Rulings Shape Public Perception of Judiciary, CJN Warns Judges

The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, on Monday called on judges across the country to carefully evaluate evidence in their courts before delivering judgments, warning that the integrity of the judiciary depends on their decisions.

  Speaking at the opening of the 2026 Refresher Course for lower court judges on evidence management, Justice Kekere-Ekun emphasized that speed should never compromise thoroughness, noting that every ruling contributes to the public perception of the judicial system.   “Decisions made without explanation, or discretion exercised inconsistently, erode public trust and weaken the legitimacy of the court,” she said. “The strength of our judiciary is measured not only by the brilliance of our judgments but by the fairness, integrity, and reliability of decisions delivered at the grassroots.”   Describing lower courts as the frontlines of justice, the CJN stressed that for man