Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), issued a firm warning to individuals and institutions regarding the non-negotiable nature of court orders. She emphasized the crucial role of the judiciary in upholding the rule of law and maintaining order in a democratic society. According to Justice Kekere-Ekun, failure to comply with judicial directives is a direct challenge to democracy and threatens the stability of the nation.
Delivering this message at the Supreme Court’s special session marking the start of the 2024/2025 legal year, the CJN reiterated that no one, regardless of their social or institutional standing, is above the law. She underscored the judiciary’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that its rulings are respected and enforced across the nation, emphasizing that judicial decisions must not be treated lightly.
Upholding the Rule of Law: A Collective Responsibility
Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun stressed the importance of collective responsibility in fostering respect for the rule of law. She called on all citizens, government institutions, and the private sector to work together in maintaining a strong commitment to democratic principles. According to the CJN, compliance with court rulings is not only a legal obligation but also a cornerstone of democracy.
Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun highlighted that maintaining the integrity of the courts is vital for ensuring justice and protecting the rights of citizens. She warned that disregarding court orders could lead to anarchy, undermining the nation’s legal framework and putting the rights of Nigerians at risk.
Threats to Democracy: Disregard for Court Orders
The Chief Justice warned that ignoring or selectively adhering to court rulings represents a serious threat to Nigeria’s democracy. She explained that when individuals or institutions disregard judicial decisions, it disrupts the balance of governance and puts democratic systems at risk.
Furthermore, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun pointed out that an entrenched culture of impunity and disrespect for the judiciary weakens the country’s legal institutions. Such actions could destabilize the rule of law, which is essential for economic development, human capital growth, and societal harmony.
Celebrating Legal Excellence: The 2024/2025 Legal Year
In her speech, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun also recognized the outstanding achievements of several legal professionals who were honored with the prestigious Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) title. This recognition came during the special session that marked the beginning of the 2024/2025 legal year, underscoring the importance of legal excellence in strengthening the judiciary.
The CJN praised these legal luminaries for their significant contributions to the legal profession and their dedication to upholding the rule of law. She expressed confidence that their new status would inspire them to continue defending justice and fairness in the nation’s legal system.
Promoting Alternative Dispute Resolution in Nigeria
Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun also addressed the need for increased public education on alternative dispute resolution (ADR) mechanisms as a means of reducing the pressure on the courts. She encouraged the use of ADR processes, such as mediation and arbitration, to resolve conflicts more efficiently and amicably.
She announced that the Supreme Court Mediation Centre, which is expected to be fully operational in the 2024/2025 legal year, will play a crucial role in advancing ADR in Nigeria. According to the CJN, educating citizens about the benefits of these alternative methods is a key priority for the judiciary as it seeks to enhance access to justice.
Strengthening Nigeria’s Legal Framework
Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun concluded her address by emphasizing the need for continuous improvement in Nigeria’s legal system. She reiterated the judiciary’s commitment to ensuring that its decisions are respected and enforced, while also enhancing access to justice for all Nigerians. She urged stakeholders in the legal sector to remain vigilant in upholding the rule of law and protecting citizens’ rights.
The CJN called for more collaboration between the judiciary, legal practitioners, and government institutions to ensure that Nigeria’s legal framework remains strong and resilient. By doing so, the nation can continue on a path of growth, development, and democratic stability.
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