Chief Justice of Nigeria, Kudirat Kekere-Ekun has pledged unwavering commitment to upholding the sanctity of legal decisions, emphasizing obedience to court orders as non-negotiable.
In her inaugural address marking the 2024/2025 legal year and the inauguration of the 87 new Senior Advocates of Nigeria, SANs, held at the Supreme Court Abuja, Kekere-Ekun stressed the judiciary’s resolve to safeguard democracy.
Disregard for court judgments, she warned, would undermine the very foundations of Nigeria’s democratic system.
Kekere-Ekun reiterated that the judiciary would no longer tolerate impunity, stressing that individual and institution, regardless of status, must respect and comply with court orders.
The new CJN urged Nigerians to join forces in entrenching the rule of law, protecting citizens’ rights, and promoting democratic principles.
Nigeria’s democracy, Kekere-Ekun noted, hinges on the judiciary’s ability to uphold justice, adding that sanctity of legal decisions must be preserved to maintain social balance and ensure the nation’s progress.
Acknowledging past shortcomings, Kekere-Ekun vowed to revamp the judiciary’s image, stating that her administration would prioritize transparency, accountability, and efficiency to restore public trust.
To address the scourge of conflicting court orders, Kekere-Ekun condemned the unwholesome practice of forum shopping.
The CJN warned that erring lawyers and judges, would face consequences for compromising the judiciary’s integrity.
She said:
“Disobedience to court orders or non-compliance with judicial directives is a direct affront to democracy and an invitation to anarchy.
“As such, it is critical that we respect and observe all the features of an enduring democracy, for in doing so, we maintain the delicate balance that sustains our society.”
“Let us, therefore, work together collectively and tirelessly to ensure that Nigeria continues to abide by the rule of law, upholds the best democratic practices, and remains vigilant in the protection of citizens’ rights.
“The rights of every Nigerian must be valiantly safeguarded against oppression and impunity, utilizing the full array of legal instruments at our disposal.
“Over the years, various factors have contributed to the negative image of the judiciary. However, we are determined to change the narrative and make the judiciary a source of pride for all Nigerians.
“When the legal compass of a nation falters, everything suffers, including public and international perception.
“The attitude of some of us in the justice sector is sometimes less than salutary, and that has contributed to the current image deficit of the country’s legal system.”
