By Vivian Okejeme, Abuja
The Chief Justice of Nigeria CJN, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun has challenged the Nigerian Bar Association NBA to rise and defend the integrity of the Nigerian judiciary.
This is contained in a statement by the Senior Special Assistant to the CJN on Media, Mr Tobi Soniyi.
Responding to the call by members of the NBA Bar and Bench Forum for more protection for judicial officers, the Chief Justice of Nigeria stated that most of the petitions against judges, accusing them of corruption are frivolous, baseless and unsubstantiated.
Justice Kekere-Ekun pointed out that some people write petitions against judges just to intimidate and harrass them.
The CJN noted that judges are traumatised after they had been investigated and found to have done nothing wrong.
While encouraging anyone with genuine grievances against judges to write to the National Judicial Council, the CJN warned against frivolous petitions.
Justice Kekere—Ekun explained that anyone accusing judges of corruption must support the allegation with clear evidence
The Chief Justice of Nigeria further expressed concern that when frivolous allegations are made against judges, the NBA remains silent.
The CJN also frowned at the practice by lawyers who without first reading court judgments to identify the ratio of the judgements go on televisions to criticise judges.
Justice Kekere-Ekun also challenged senior counsel to mentor young lawyers and help them grow as disciplined and responsible members of the Bar.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the NBA Bar and Bench Forum, Dr Richard Oma Ahonaruogho also warned against writing frivolous petitions against judges.
He advised the NJC to ensure that petition against judges are screened so that frivolous petitions can be discarded without wasting council’s time.
He further recommended that frivolous petitions should warrant heavy cost.
He also sought the support of the CJN to ensure mutual respect between the Bar and the Bench.
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