The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Kudirat Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun, has advised newly appointed judges of the Federal High Court to understand that their new role is a serious national responsibility, not just a promotion.
She gave this advice on Wednesday during the swearing-in ceremony held at the Supreme Court Complex in Abuja. While administering the Oath of Allegiance and Judicial Oath, she told the judges that their decisions would affect Nigeria’s economy, governance, and public trust in the justice system.
According to her, becoming a judge means dedicating oneself completely to the law and to the Nigerian people. She explained that the Federal High Court handles important cases involving revenue, banking, maritime matters, intellectual property, and other major commercial disputes. She noted that judgments from the court can influence markets, institutions, and national development.
Justice Kekere-Ekun said the judges were selected through a strict, transparent, and technology-driven process. She explained that the National Judicial Council and the Federal Judicial Service Commission improved the appointment process to focus on merit, integrity, competence, and good character. For the first time, shortlisted candidates’ names were published for the public to send comments about their integrity and suitability.
However, the CJN expressed concern about increasing attacks and accusations against the judiciary without proper evidence. She said while the judiciary is not perfect and will punish proven misconduct, careless allegations can damage public confidence and harm honest judges. She warned that when people lose trust in the courts, the rule of law is at risk.
She advised the new judges to be disciplined, punctual, and fair. She said delays caused by laziness or poor case management amount to denying justice. She also warned them to resist pressure from political, social, or financial influences and to protect both their independence and public image.
Describing the oath as a serious promise to God and the Federal Republic of Nigeria, she encouraged the judges to continue learning, use modern case management systems, and support the ongoing digitisation of the courts.
A total of 14 judges were sworn in as part of 36 judicial officers recommended for different courts across the country, including the Supreme Court, State High Courts, Sharia Courts of Appeal, and Customary Courts of Appeal.
The National Judicial Council approved the 14 Federal High Court judges during its 110th meeting held in January and forwarded their names to President Bola Tinubu after security checks showed no negative reports.
Those sworn in include Sulaiman Amida Hassan, Muhammad Bara’u Saidu, Igboko Chinelo Conchita Onuegbu, Onuegbu Chioma Angela, Galumje Edingah, Ibrahim Vera Eneabo, Abubakar Musa Usman, Salihu Aisha Yunusa, Ikpeme Joy Bassey, Shehu Umar Adamu, Ibrahim Mohammed Buba, Eigege-Binjin Nendelmun Judith, Usoro Kuyik Uduak, and Nwoye Donatus Osinachi.
Source; PM News