The new Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Motomori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun, has issued a stern warning that disobedience to court orders will not be tolerated under her watch.
Speaking in Abuja on Monday, the CJN made it clear that no individual or institution, regardless of status, would be allowed to treat court judgments with disregard or disrespect.
She delivered this warning during the opening of the 2024/2025 legal year and the swearing-in ceremony for 87 new Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs) at the Supreme Court.
Justice Kekere-Ekun emphasized the judiciary’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that legal decisions are respected. She noted that obedience to court orders is critical to maintaining democracy and peace in the country.
“Disobedience to court orders or non-compliance with judicial directives is a direct affront to democracy and an invitation to anarchy,” the CJN declared.
Justice Kekere-Ekun urged all stakeholders to work together to ensure that Nigeria remains a country where the rule of law is respected and citizens’ rights are protected.
The CJN’s speech highlighted the importance of collective responsibility in ensuring that the judiciary functions effectively. She stressed that all hands must be on deck to foster an unwavering commitment to the rule of law.
She said, “Let us work together collectively and tirelessly to ensure that Nigeria continues to abide by the rule of law, upholds the best democratic practices, and remains vigilant in the protection of citizens’ rights.”
This message comes at a time when the Nigerian judiciary has faced criticism for issues such as delays in the legal process, forum shopping by lawyers, and conflicting court orders. Justice Kekere-Ekun made it clear that her tenure would focus on addressing these challenges and restoring public trust in the judiciary.
The CJN also spoke about the need to protect the rights of every Nigerian. She emphasized that the judiciary must be a defender of the oppressed and a force against impunity.
“The rights of every Nigerian must be valiantly safeguarded against oppression and impunity, utilizing the full array of legal instruments at our disposal,” she stated.
With her appointment, Justice Kekere-Ekun promised that a new era has begun for the Nigerian judiciary. She expressed her commitment to improving the image of the judiciary and working to make it a source of pride for all Nigerians.
“Over the years, various factors have contributed to the negative image of the judiciary. However, we are determined to change the narrative and make the judiciary a source of pride for all Nigerians,” she said.
This pledge comes at a time when the judiciary is under intense scrutiny, both locally and internationally. Delays in delivering justice, corruption allegations, and controversial rulings have all contributed to a negative perception of the judiciary.
The CJN acknowledged these challenges and assured Nigerians that her leadership would be different. She stated that the judiciary would work diligently to rebuild public confidence.
“When the legal compass of a nation falters, everything suffers, including public and international perception,” she remarked.
Justice Kekere-Ekun also addressed the issue of forum shopping by lawyers. Forum shopping occurs when lawyers seek favorable judgments by filing cases in courts that they believe will give them the outcome they desire, often leading to conflicting court orders.
The CJN condemned this practice and warned that there would be consequences for any act that brings the judiciary into disrepute.
“There will be consequences for any act of indiscretion that could bring the judiciary to disrepute,” she warned.
