2027: CJN warns judges against pressure, conflicting orders

The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has cautioned judges against pressure, conflicting orders, and attempts to obtain biased judgments ahead of the 2027 general elections. In a speech at the opening of the 2026 Roundtable for Heads of Courts in Abuja, she emphasized the importance of maintaining impartiality and adhering strictly to the law.

Kekere-Ekun warned against forum shopping, concealment of related proceedings, and any attempts to obtain conflicting orders, as these practices undermine the judiciary's credibility and public confidence. She urged judges to establish appropriate administrative arrangements for handling election-related cases and to scrutinize applications carefully, insisting on full and frank disclosure of relevant facts.

Kekere-Ekun also highlighted the pressing issue of delays in the determination of cases, stating that timely justice delivery is essential to maintaining public confidence in the justice system. She called for transparent, fair, and merit-based judicial appointments and stressed the importance of promoting professional standards and an institutional culture that upholds impartiality and accountability.