Reform judiciary, SANs, activists task incoming CJN

Senior lawyers, activists, and stakeholders in the nation’s justice system have called on the incoming Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, to reform the judiciary.

They noted that a complete overhaul of Nigeria’s judiciary is essential to restore public confidence in this arm of government.

Two Professors of Law, Ernest Ojukwu (SAN) and Samuel Erugo (SAN), alongside other panellists at a roundtable discussion in Abuja on Tuesday, lamented the state of Nigeria’s judiciary.

Speaking at the session, activist Aisha Yesufu and the

During the event, where a five-point agenda was drafted as a guide for the incoming CJN, Professor Ojukwu advised the new CJN to ensure that Nigerians do not become disillusioned, but rather that the “principles of equity, fairness, and justice become her watchwords.”

The professor also called on the courts to distance themselves from election cases to ensure that only true winners at the polls become leaders.

Samuel Erugo (SAN) suggested that the Supreme Court should be reformed to allow it to review its own judgements, especially in cases where there is significant public outcry.

Additionally, the panellists urged Kekere-Ekun to be prepared to reform judicial appointments to eliminate nepotism and favouritism.

Similarly, the stakeholders want the incoming CJN to address the issue of conflicting judgements and orders issued by courts of coordinate jurisdiction, in the interest of both the judiciary and the public.

panellists insisted that “a total reform is needed in the judiciary in the best interest of justice delivery.”