CJN to New Judges: Reject Unsolicited Gifts, Deliver Justice Without Delay

The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has cautioned newly appointed judges of the lower courts against accepting unsolicited gifts, warning that such gestures could expose them to allegations of misconduct and disciplinary petitions.

Justice Kekere-Ekun gave the warning at the opening ceremony of an induction course for newly appointed judges, where she also urged them to prioritise the speedy and fair determination of cases to strengthen public confidence in the judiciary.

Represented at the event by the Administrator of the National Judicial Institute (NJI), Justice Babatunde Adejumo, the CJN stressed that timely justice remains essential to maintaining the trust of litigants and the credibility of the judicial system.

She also underscored the importance of maintaining a cordial and professional working relationship with court personnel, particularly registrars, exhibit keepers and other judicial staff.

"You must work harmoniously with all the officials under you and ensure that you manage them diplomatically and technically," she said.

Justice Kekere-Ekun advised the judges to familiarise themselves thoroughly with the rules of court to prevent lawyers from taking advantage of procedural gaps.

"You must also read the rules of courts so that lawyers will not take you for a ride. Read everything that comes before you," she added.

The Chief Justice further warned judges against accepting unsolicited gifts or organising lavish birthday celebrations, noting that such occasions could provide opportunities for undue influence and lead to petitions against judicial officers.

"Most importantly, do not allow unsolicited gifts. You must equally avoid throwing unnecessary birthday parties. People will seize the opportunity to bring unsolicited gifts that can lead to petitions," she cautioned.

She also urged the judges to respect the hierarchy within the judiciary by maintaining cordial relationships with their heads of court.

"As judges of the lower courts, you play a key role in the judiciary. Ensure that you are not rude to your heads of court," she said.

The CJN equally advised judicial officers to exercise restraint in invoking their contempt powers, warning that excessive use of such authority could have unintended consequences.

"I will also enjoin you not to use your power of contempt too much. It should be used sparingly; otherwise it may backfire," she said.

In his welcome address, the Administrator of the National Judicial Institute, Justice Babatunde Adejumo, congratulated the new judges on their appointments and reminded them of the enormous responsibility entrusted to them.

He said they had been called to uphold constitutional supremacy, protect the rule of law and shape the course of justice in Nigeria.

According to him, judges of the lower courts occupy a critical position within the nation's judicial system because they handle the majority of cases affecting ordinary citizens while helping to reduce the workload of superior courts.

"Beyond being the primary facilitators of grassroots justice by resolving the vast majority of cases directly affecting ordinary Nigerian citizens, the lower courts act as crucial filters that streamline the workload of the superior courts, thereby enhancing overall efficiency," he said.

Justice Adejumo noted that the competence, integrity and professionalism of lower court judges are fundamental to the effective administration of justice.

He explained that the induction programme was designed to equip the new judges with the ethical values, judicial conduct and practical knowledge required for effective adjudication.

According to him, the course would also deepen participants' understanding of courtroom management, judicial ethics, substantive and procedural law as well as the practical realities of dispensing justice fairly and impartially.