The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, on Monday swore in members of the Election Petitions Tribunals ahead of the 2027 elections, “warning judicial officers against political pressure and intimidation”.

The CJN gave the warning at the swearing-in of members and a capacity-building workshop organised by the Court of Appeal. Three hundred and seventy-five judges took the oath of office as members of the 2027 election petitions tribunals.

Ms Kekere-Ekun said, “The public airing of allegations, pronouncements on the merits of pending cases or attempts to prejudge judicial outcomes can create unnecessary tension and undermine public confidence in the administration of justice.

“While citizens are entitled to express their views and participate in public discourse, that freedom should be exercised responsibly and with due regard for the integrity of judicial proceedings.

“Criticism of judicial decisions, when informed and responsibly expressed, is a legitimate feature of democratic discourse; however, misinformation, intimidation and attempts to prejudice pending proceedings have no place in a society governed by the rule of law.”

The CJN also cautioned lawyers against filing multiple suits and seeking conflicting court orders in election-related disputes ahead of the 2027 elections. She further warned judges handling 2027 election petitions against compromising fair hearing in their bid to deliver speedy justice.

Ms Kekere-Ekun said such practices, including using ex parte applications to secure tactical advantages, could bring the administration of justice into disrepute. She cautioned that the urgency of election petitions must not be used as an excuse to compromise any party’s right to a fair hearing, stressing the need to balance expedition with fairness.

Ms Kekere-Ekun urged the judges undertaking the assignment to remain guided by their judicial oath, courage and impartiality, irrespective of public expectations or pressure.
She also implored legal practitioners to approach election litigation with professionalism and candour.

“The duty of a legal practitioner is not merely to advance the interests of a client, but to do so within the bounds of professional ethics and respect for the administration of justice,” she said.

Attorney general Lateef Fagbemi said that how electoral disputes were adjudicated often determined whether political contests were peacefully resolved within constitutional order or descended into uncertainty and discord.

Mr Fagbemi said the effectiveness of the tribunals depended not only on the competence of judicial members but also on the efficiency of their registries and quality of administrative support.

He said the appointment of registrars should not be treated as routine administrative postings, stressing the need for individuals with the requisite experience, competence and administrative capacity.

(NAN)