Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), has cautioned newly appointed judges of the lower courts against accepting unsolicited gifts, warning that such actions could expose them to petitions and erode public confidence in the judiciary.
The CJN gave the warning at the opening of an induction course for newly appointed judges in Abuja on Tuesday.
Represented by the Administrator of the National Judicial Institute (NJI), Justice Babatunde Adejumo, Kekere-Ekun urged the judges to uphold the highest standards of integrity and ensure the speedy and fair dispensation of justice.
She said judicial officers must remain above reproach in both their official and personal conduct.
“Most importantly, do not allow unsolicited gifts. You must equally avoid throwing unnecessary birthday parties. People will seize the opportunity to bring unsolicited gifts that can lead to petitions,” she said.
The CJN also advised the judges to work harmoniously with court officials, including registrars and exhibit keepers, while maintaining professionalism in the discharge of their duties.
She urged them to familiarise themselves with court rules to avoid being misled by legal practitioners and cautioned against the excessive use of contempt powers.
“You must work harmoniously with all the officials under you and ensure that you manage them diplomatically and technically. Read the rules of court so that lawyers will not take you for a ride,” she said.
Kekere-Ekun stressed that prompt and fair determination of cases was essential to sustaining public trust in the nation’s judicial system.
In his remarks, Justice Adejumo congratulated the new judges on their appointments, describing their elevation to the Bench as a significant responsibility in upholding constitutional supremacy, the rule of law and access to justice.
He said the induction programme was designed to equip participants with knowledge of judicial ethics, courtroom management, substantive and procedural law, and the practical skills required for effective adjudication.
Adejumo noted that the lower courts remain the first point of contact for most Nigerians seeking justice and play a critical role in the effective administration of the country’s judicial system.
He urged the judges to make the most of the training as they prepare to assume their responsibilities on the Bench.
