Corruption has infiltrated every sector of Nigerian society, and the judiciary is no exception. Legal professionals and stakeholders are raising alarms over the persistent issues of corruption, judicial delays, and perceived bias, calling for urgent reforms to restore the integrity of the system. At a recent event in Abuja, the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, expressed concern over the lingering allegations of misconduct within the judiciary. Despite ongoing reform efforts, she noted that accusations of corruption, inefficiency, and undue political influence continue to erode public trust.
“Without public confidence, the judiciary’s moral authority is diminished, and its ability to discharge its constitutional mandate is impaired,” she warned, emphasizing the need for integrity, professionalism, and transparency in the judicial system. President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Afam Osigwe, SAN, urged lawyers to uphold ethical standards, stressing that those who violate professional conduct rules must be held accountable to rebuild public trust.
Eletu O., convener of the Public Accountability and Justice Initiative for Good Governance, echoed similar concerns, stating that political interference has tainted the judiciary’s credibility. He emphasized that regaining public confidence will take time and deliberate efforts. Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Abdul Balogun, acknowledged that corruption exists within the judiciary, just as it does in other sectors, but affirmed that legal mechanisms are in place to address such misconduct.
Meanwhile, constitutional lawyer Bashir Akande commended past and present judiciary leaders for their efforts in preventing a total collapse of the system. He highlighted the importance of strong leadership in managing challenges and ensuring the judiciary remains functional. As the debate over judicial integrity intensifies, legal experts agree that comprehensive reforms are essential to restoring the judiciary’s credibility and reaffirming its role as the last hope of the common man.
