Nigeria’s judiciary is at a crossroads, and newly sworn-in Chief Justice Kekere-Ekun has a monumental task ahead of her.
The judiciary’s image has been tarnished by allegations of bias, inefficiency, and politicization, particularly after the contentious 2023 general elections.
To restore public trust and confidence, Justice Kekere-Ekun must prioritize transparency, accountability, and impartiality.
The judiciary’s vulnerability to manipulation has been exposed, with allegations of miscarriage of justice, selective justice, and indiscriminate “cash and carry” exparte orders undermining the people’s faith in the system.
The practice of forum shopping, where judges shop for favorable courts, must end.
Selective justice, where the powerful receive preferential treatment, must cease.
Indiscriminate “cash and carry” exparte orders, which undermine the integrity of the judiciary, must be stopped.
The judiciary must demonstrate its independence and resistance to external influences, ensuring judges remain unbiased and unswayed by external pressures.
Streamlining judicial processes to reduce delays and promote timely justice delivery is crucial.
Regular training and development programs for judges and judicial staff will enhance capacity and competence.
Ensuring adequate resources and support systems for judicial workers will boost morale and productivity.
By tackling these challenges head-on, Justice Kekere-Ekun can redeem the judiciary’s image, bolster public trust, and cement her legacy as a champion of justice.
Nigerians expect nothing short of a judicial renaissance – one that reaffirms the judiciary’s role as the last bastion of hope for justice and fairness.
With courage, conviction, and unwavering commitment, Justice Kekere-Ekun can revolutionize Nigeria’s judicial landscape, ending the embarrassing charade that has reduced “Go To Court” to a mockery and restoring faith in the rule of law.
Will she rise to the challenge and usher in a new era of judicial excellence? The answer lies in her willingness to act decisively and lead with integrity.