Justice Kudirat Motomori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun, Nigeria’s newly elected Chief Justice, has stated that compliance to court decisions will not be negotiated during her tenure.
The Chief Justice Speaking at the occasion of the 2024/2025 legal year and the appointment of 87 new Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs) to the Supreme Court, highlighted that no individual or institution would be permitted to take court rulings lightly or with no regard.
Kekere-Ekun stressed the judiciary’s commitment to safeguarding the sanctity of legal decisions in accordance with the rule of law.
She stated that her appointment marked the beginning of a new era in the Nigerian court and promised to work tirelessly to enhance public perception of the judiciary.
In her words: “Disobedience to court orders or non-compliance with judicial directives is a direct affront to democracy and an invitation to anarchy.
“As such, it is critical that we respect and observe all the features of an enduring democracy, for in doing so, we maintain the delicate balance that sustains our society.
“Let us, therefore, work together collectively and tirelessly to ensure that Nigeria continues to abide by the rule of law, upholds the best democratic practices, and remains vigilant in the protection of citizens’ rights.
“The rights of every Nigerian must be valiantly safeguarded against oppression and impunity, utilizing the full array of legal instruments at our disposal.
“Over the years, various factors have contributed to the negative image of the judiciary. However, we are determined to change the narrative and make the judiciary a source of pride for all Nigerians.
“When the legal compass of a nation falters, everything suffers, including public and international perception.
“The attitude of some of us in the justice sector is sometimes less than salutary, and that has contributed to the current image deficit of the country’s legal system.”
The CJN further criticized forum shopping by lawyers, claiming it leads to conflicting orders in coordinated jurisdiction courts. And pledged to punish any indiscretion that could discredit the judiciary under her watch.
Written by Cheta Enyoghasi
