The Chief Justice of Nigeria, CJN, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has warned judges against romancing with political parties in the resolution of disputes that will arise in the conduct of the 2027 general elections scheduled for January next year.
The CJN warned that on no account should any judge exhibit conduct or behaviour that jeopardise absolute impartiality expected of them.
Justice Kekere-Ekun issued the warning on Monday in Abuja on the occasion of the commencement of the 2026 Legal Year of the Supreme Court of Nigeria.
She said, “Elections inevitably generate heightened political activity and strong emotions. They also bring before the courts disputes that may have significant consequences for individuals, political parties and the country.
“The judiciary must approach such matters with the same calmness, detachment and fidelity to the law that it brings to every other dispute.
“Judicial officers must remain conscious that every word they speak and every action they take during an electoral period will be subjected to scrutiny.
“They must exercise restraint, avoid political association or conduct capable of creating an appearance of partiality and remain firmly within the boundaries imposed by their oath and the Constitution.
“It can also create the unfortunate impression that parties are seeking not justice according to law but a particular outcome from a particular court.
“There is, moreover, a broader institutional concern. It does not augur well for our judicial system or the administration of justice if the courts become so overwhelmed by political disputes that other cases in their dockets are
consequently delayed or denied the timely attention they require.
“The judiciary must remain available to all litigants, and the urgency or public
prominence of political litigation should not come at the expense of other legitimate claims awaiting determination”.
The CJN expressed happiness with the performance of the Supreme Court in the outgoing legal year.
Credit: dailypost.ng
