In a significant address today, the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, has reaffirmed the paramount importance of the country’s constitution, emphasizing that public opinions, regardless of their weight, cannot override its provisions.
Justice Ariwoola made these remarks while administering the oath of office to newly appointed judges of the Federal High Court of Nigeria. Despite ongoing attacks on the judiciary, he stressed that justices and judges must steadfastly apply constitutional provisions when adjudicating cases.
“Several vitriolic attacks are regularly heaped on the judiciary. It is, however, crystal clear that public opinions, no matter how serious or weighty they might be, cannot override or supersede the Constitution of the country which we apply in deciding each case,” said the Chief Justice.
He also cautioned the newly appointed judges against any form of wrongdoing, making it clear that the Nigeria Judiciary Commission would take decisive action against any misconduct.
“Appointment to the bench is not an appointment to wealth, vainglory, dishonest disposition, or ostentatious lifestyle through corrupt acquaintances,” warned Ariwoola. He underlined the National Judicial Council’s (NJC) role in maintaining the integrity of the judiciary.
“The searchlight of the National Judicial Council beams brightly on all judicial officers across the country. The NJC should never, either by omission or commission, be mistaken for a toothless Bulldog. It can bark fiercely and as well bite deeply and aggressively, too,” he declared.
The Chief Justice assured that the NJC has the means to detect corruption and wrongdoing by judicial officers, irrespective of their locations, and would not hesitate to take necessary action.
In his closing remarks, Justice Ariwoola urged the judges to uphold honesty, impartiality, fairness, and objectivity in their duties, emphasizing the critical role they play in these perilous times.
“Your appointments to the bench at this crucial period of our national history are not by accident but by divine ordination,” he concluded.
This address by the Chief Justice of Nigeria underscores the judiciary’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and maintaining integrity in the face of public scrutiny and challenges.