CJN warns judiciary staff against leaking court judgements

By Vivian Okejeme, Abuja

The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Ibrahim Tanko, has admonished Secretaries, Protocol Officers and Administrative staff of the judiciary to avoid temptation of leaking judgements and bring the judiciary to disrepute.
The CJN, who also doubles as the Chairman, Board of Governors of the National Judicial Institution (NJI) reminded them that integrity and transparency are essential components required for the administration of justice.
Tanko said this while speaking at the opening ceremony of the 2021 National Workshop for Secretaries, Protocol officers and other Administrative Staff of Judiciary, at the NJI.
According to the CJN, the workshop, with the theme: Promoting Discipline and Commitment Among Court Employee, is key as it seeks to further enlighten them to exhibit high sense of commitment in the discharge of their duties.
‘’ As court employees, you are aware that integrity and transparency are essential components required for the administration of justice.
‘’In this regard, I must not fail to emphasize that your work involves interfacing with litigants seeking redress and judges who adjudicate on the matters; as such you must be circumspect in the discharge of your duties, as much is required of you.
‘’To this end, you must exhibit decorum, comportment and discipline in the discharge of duties; and display high ethical standards at all time, as it would help you earn public trust and confidence; noting that the judiciary will not tolerate indiscipline among any rank of its staff, as anyone found wanting may be attracting disciplinary action without prejudice.
On his part, the new Administrator of the institution, Justice Salisu Garba Abdullahi, warned the secretaries to stay away from corrupt tendencies and make confidentiality their watchword.
While acknowledging challenges participants face in the course of their duty, he posited that it should not deter them from performing at optimal levels.
Garba reiterated the position of Judiciary as the last hope of common man, adding that ‘’all hands must be on deck’’ to ensure Judicial system is held by the public in the highest esteem.
“We must ensure that we maintain the trust and integrity reposed in the judiciary.
“In view of your key role in the overall process of justice administration, you must at all tomes exemplify good character,’’ he concluded.