Avoid contact with political parties in election disputes -Chief Justice warns judges
The Chief Justice of Nigeria, CJN, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has warned judges against romancing with political parties in the resolution of disputes that will arise in the conduct of the 2027 general elections scheduled for January next year. The CJN warned that on no account should any judge exhibit conduct or behaviour that jeopardise absolute […] The post Avoid contact with political…
Nigeria's Chief Justice, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has cautioned judges to remain politically neutral while resolving disputes related to the 2027 general elections set for next January. In an address at the start of the 2026 Legal Year of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, Justice Kekere-Ekun stressed that judges must maintain absolute impartiality at all times.
She emphasized that elections bring about heightened political activity and strong emotions, which may lead to disputes with significant consequences for individuals, political parties, and the country as a whole.
Judicial officers must be aware that every word and action during an electoral period will be scrutinized. They are urged to exercise restraint, stay away from any political association or conduct that could create an impression of partiality, and remain within the boundaries imposed by their oath and the Constitution. Moreover, such behavior could suggest that parties are seeking specific outcomes from a particular court rather than justice according to the law.
The Chief Justice also highlighted a broader concern that if courts become overwhelmed with political disputes, other cases in their dockets may be delayed or receive less timely attention. She expressed satisfaction with the Supreme Court's performance in the previous legal year and wished the judiciary well in managing the upcoming challenges.
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