CJN tasks new judges on impartiality

The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun has charged the newly inaugurated judges of the Federal High Court to see their appointment as not an elevation of status alone but the acceptance of a burden of impartiality, restraint, discipline, and unwavering fidelity to the constitution.  She noted that the Federal High Court occupies […]

The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun has charged the newly inaugurated judges of the Federal High Court to see their appointment as not an elevation of status alone but the acceptance of a burden of impartiality, restraint, discipline, and unwavering fidelity to the constitution. 

She noted that the Federal High Court occupies a pivotal place in the country’s judicial architecture as it exercises jurisdiction over matters that directly shape the economic, political, and regulatory life of the nation including revenue, banking, maritime affairs, intellectual property, and other complex commercial disputes. 

Justice Kekere-Ekun spoke on Wednesday during the inauguration of the 14 newly appointed judges, who were recommended to President Bola Tinubu at the courtroom of the Supreme Court in Abuja. 

The CJN reminded the judges that because of the far-reaching impact of their decisions on markets and the stability of governance itself, their selection followed one of the most rigorous, transparent, background integrity checks, public participation and technology-enhanced selection processes ever undertaken in the history of judicial appointments, with an evaluation mechanism for merit, integrity, competence, and temperament. 

“The oath you have taken today is not ceremonial language. It is a covenant with God and with the Federal Republic of Nigeria. It demands courage when decisions are unpopular, restraint when provoked, humility in learning, and steadfastness in the face of challenges. The robe of a judge does not make you superior; it makes you accountable,” she said.