Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Justice Olukayode Ariwoola has reasserted the judiciary’s unwavering dedication to impartiality amidst public influence.
During the inauguration of the 2023/2024 legal year and the induction of 58 Senior Advocates of Nigeria, the CJN stressed the values of diligence, integrity, and respect among judicial officers.
Ariwoola emphasized the imperative for humility in discharging duties, urging fair treatment of litigants, witnesses, and bar members.
He assured that the judiciary will remain unswayed by external pressures, underscoring that public sentiment should never overshadow the law in decision-making processes.
“The law stands firm, irrespective of individual interests. As interpreters of the law, we must detach emotion from logic and facts from assumptions,” stated the CJN.
He cautioned against succumbing to the clamor of the masses, advocating for decisions guided solely by legal principles rather than sentiment. Emphasizing the significance of judicious conduct, Ariwoola highlighted that needless remarks could undermine not only others but the judiciary itself.
Pledging to safeguard the rule of law and the judiciary’s autonomy, the CJN reiterated his commitment to preserving public trust and confidence in the legal system.
