CJN Kekere-Ekun urges judges to always uphold professional ethics
The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has urged judges to always uphold professional ethics to give a good impression about the way the public perceives the judicial
The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has urged judges to always uphold professional ethics to give a good impression about the way the public perceives the judicial system.
Justice Kekere-Ekun said: “The legitimacy of judicial authority depends not only on the correctness of decisions but also on the confidence reposed in the courts by the public.
“That confidence is sustained, in large measure, by the ethical conduct of judicial officers. Judicial ethics, therefore, remains central to the administration of justice and to the preservation of the rule of law,” she said.
The CJN spoke yesterday in Abuja during the opening ceremony of the national workshop on judicial ethics for judges of the superior courts, organised by the National Judicial Institute (NJI).
Justice Kekere-Ekun, who said the role of the judiciary is now attracting considerable public attention, stressed that ethical standards in judicial office extend beyond formal compliance with established rules.
She explained that ethical standards encompass a disciplined adherence to the principles of independence, impartiality, integrity, propriety, equality, competence, and diligence.
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The CJN said it was important that these principles guide judicial conduct at all times - within and outside the courtroom.
She added: “The judge must consistently act in a manner that preserves the dignity of the office and reinforces confidence in the justice system.
“The ethical environment within which judicial officers operate has become increasingly complex.
“Developments in technology, particularly the expansion of digital communication and social media, have introduced new dimensions to judicial conduct. Judicial actions and expressions are now subject to immediate and widespread public scrutiny.
“These realities require judicial officers to exercise heightened caution, sound judgment, and a clear understanding of the ethical boundaries of judicial engagement.”
Justice Kekere-Ekun noted that although the Code of Conduct for Judicial Officers provides the framework for ethical behaviour within the Judiciary, its application often requires careful interpretation in the context of specific situations.
The CJN averred that issues relating to conflicts of interest, recusal, extra-judicial engagements, and interactions with counsel and litigants frequently call for the exercise of informed discretion.
She said it was important that judicial officers approach such issues with clarity of purpose, guided by both the letter and spirit of the Code.
Justice Kekere-Ekun added: “Judicial ethics is also closely linked to the manner in which judicial functions are performed.
“The control of proceedings, the treatment of counsel and litigants, and the maintenance of decorum in the courtroom all have ethical implications.
“A judge who conducts proceedings with fairness, firmness, and courtesy enhances the credibility of the court and promotes confidence in the administration of justice.
“Conversely, lapses in conduct, however unintended, may undermine that confidence. It must also be recognised that the conduct of judges of the superior courts carries broader institutional implications.
“Their actions frequently set standards that guide judicial practice across the Federation.
“Clear, consistent, and principled conduct contributes to coherence and predictability within the justice system, while inconsistency may weaken public trust.
“Strengthening ethical awareness is, therefore, essential to sustaining a credible and respected Judiciary,” the CJN said.
