Judiciary must lead by example says CJN

By Olalekan Awojodu

Abuja

The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad Monday urged the judiciary to lead by example, noting that their duties invariably affect mostly the vulnerable in the society.

Muhammad gave the advise while giving a keynote address at the virtual opening ceremony of the 2020 All Nigeria judge’s conference of the lower courts, held in Abuja.

The CJN further charged judges of the lower court to observe strict discipline, saying ethics must not be far-fetched in their conduct.

The theme of the conference is: The role of the lower courts in promoting justice and good governance in Nigeria she noted was sacrosanct.

He said, “The judiciary as a noble institution must lead by example. Your duties invariably affect mostly the vulnerable in the society.

“I urge you to decisively shun every vice which will bring the judiciary into disrepute. Practices such as lateness to court, accepting any form of gratification or inducement must be shunned.

The CJN then hailed the institute for exemplifying proficiency and pro-activeness, noting that its curriculum has adequately advanced the needs of judicial officers in the country.

In her own address, the Administrator of the National Judicial institute, Justice Rosaline Bozimo also described the judiciary as the fulcrum of good governance globally.

According to the administrator, the judiciary has a major role to play in upholding constitutional democracy to ensure that justice is not only done but is seen to be done.

The conference according to her has always been a stock taking event for judges of lower courts in the country, saying it has provided an opportunity to reflect upon what has been achieved over time and strategize on how to tackle challenges hindering justice dispensation.

“Like never before, the recent expansion in the scope of our activities as epitomized by recent collaborations with various government organizations is indeed proof that the institute is determined to improve upon capacity building for judges and judiciary staff.

Furthermore, a training programme for Judicial Correspondents to enlighten journalists on global best practices has since become a regular feature on the institute’s calendar for upwards of over five years; and this training has impacted positively on the quality of reportage,” Bozimo noted.

The administrator nevertheless assured stakeholders that the NJI will continue to ensure that the nation judiciary is at par with others around the globe.