The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, expressed concern over the continued presence of corruption allegations, delays in justice delivery, and bias within the judiciary, despite ongoing efforts to address these issues.
She made this statement on Monday in Abuja during the opening of the 2025 hybrid refresher course for judges of superior courts of record.
“In spite of our collective efforts, challenges persist; Allegations of corruption, delays in the dispensation of justice, and perceptions of bias or inefficiency remain issues of concern,” she said.
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The CJN stated that the challenges were having a profound impact on the judicial system.
“They undermine public confidence, weaken the judiciary’s authority, and create a dangerous gulf between the courts and the society they serve.
“The onus is therefore on us to confront these challenges head-on and reaffirm our commitment to judicial excellence,” she said.
While acknowledging that the judiciary is the guardian of justice, the final authority in disputes, and the ultimate protector of constitutional order, the CJN emphasized that it does not operate in isolation.
“Its authority and effectiveness are inextricably linked to the trust and confidence that the public reposes in it.
“Without public confidence, the judiciary’s moral authority is diminished, and its ability to discharge its constitutional mandate is impaired.
“However, public trust is neither assumed nor conferred, it must be earned and safeguarded through judicial integrity, professionalism, transparency, and an unwavering commitment to justice.”
“As judicial officers, we bear the solemn responsibility of ensuring that justice is dispensed with fairness, impartiality, and efficiency.
“It is not enough to be impartial; we must also be seen to be impartial. The perception of bias or impropriety can be as damaging as the reality itself,” Mrs Kekere-Ekun said.
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