Dr Kayode Ajulo, the attorney-general of Ondo state, has urged the new Chief Justice of Nigeria, Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, to spearhead the development of a new, robust and comprehensive code of conduct for judicial officers.

President Bola Tinubu, on Friday, said her appointment is subject to approval by the Senate.

Mr Ajulo, SAN, said the new code of conduct would help restore public confidence in the nation’s judicial system.

Mr Ajulo, in an agenda-setting statement for the new chief judge, stated that the code of conduct should enshrine ethical and professional standards expected of judges and other judicial officials.

“It shall ensure the integrity, impartiality, and independence of the judiciary, and maintain the public’s unwavering confidence in the system.

“It will strengthen public trust through unwavering transparency, unimpeachable accountability, and the most steadfast fairness in all judicial proceedings

“It will prioritise a comprehensive agenda of judicial reforms, addressing systemic challenges of inadequate funding, infrastructure deficits, and pressing issue of case backlogs, to enhance efficiency and accessibility of our justice system’, he said.

Mr Ajulo said it would also foster a spirit of collaborative synergy between the judiciary, legislative, and executive branches, thereby resolving any tensions and safeguarding the independence of the courts.

According to him, it will invest diligently in the capacity-building of judges and court staff while leveraging technological innovations to improve efficiency and widen access to justice for all.

He urged the new chief justice to champion initiatives that would promote noble ideals of gender equality and diversity within the hallowed halls of the judiciary.

According to the Ondo state attorney-general, that will strengthen the institution and reflect the diverse tapestry of our society.

While congratulating the new acting chief judge, Mr Ajulo described Mrs Kekere-Ekun as a distinguished jurist with customary brilliance and unwavering sense of purpose.

“Your extraordinary recognition is a true testament to your distinguished career, unwavering commitment to the rule of law, and your unwavering dedication to the fair administration of justice.

“Your judicial experience, impeccable legal acumen, and principled leadership will be invaluable in guiding the Nigerian judiciary through this transitional period”, he said.

Mr Ajulo said her reputation as a jurist of the highest calibre inspired profound trust and assurance that she would uphold the integrity of the Supreme Court and further strengthen the public’s faith in the nation’s judicial system.

“I have had the distinct honour of appearing before your esteemed presence on several occasions, and I have witnessed first-hand, your formidable intellect, unwavering impartiality, and steadfast defence of the rule of law.

“This reputation for being a no-nonsense yet impartial jurist will undoubtedly be instrumental in restoring the public’s confidence in the judiciary,” he said.

(NAN)