Ondo Attorney-General Tasks Acting Chief Justice on Restoring Confidence in Judiciary

The Attorney-General of Ondo State Ajulo (SAN) has urged the new Acting Chief Justice of the Federation, Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, to spearhead development of a new, robust and comprehensive Code of Conduct for Judicial Officers.

Ajulo, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, said the new code of conduct would help restore public confidence in the nation’s judicial system.

President Bola Tinubu on Friday administered oath of office on Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun as the acting Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), pending her confirmation by the Senate.

Ajulo in an agenda-setting statement for the new acting chief judge stated that the code of conduct should enshrine ethical and professional standards expected of judges and other judicial officials.

According to him, “It shall ensure the integrity, impartiality, and independence of the judiciary, and maintaining the public’s unwavering confidence in the system.

“Strengthen public trust through unwavering transparency, unimpeachable accountability, and the most steadfast fairness in all judicial proceedings

“Prioritise a comprehensive agenda of judicial reforms, addressing systemic challenges of inadequate funding, infrastructure deficits, and pressing issue of case backlogs, to enhance efficiency and accessibility of our justice system.

“Foster a spirit of collaborative synergy between the judiciary, legislative, and executive branches, thereby resolving any tensions and safeguarding the independence of the courts.

“Invest diligently in the capacity-building of judges and court staff, while leveraging technological innovations to improve efficiency and widen access to justice for all.”

Ajulo urged the new chief justice to champion initiatives that shall promote noble ideals of gender equality and diversity within the hallowed halls of the judiciary.

The state attorney-general said this shall undoubtedly strengthen the institution and reflect the diverse tapestry of our society.

While congratulating the new acting chief judge, Ajulo described Kekere-Ekun as a distinguished jurist with customary brilliance and unwavering sense of purpose.

“Your extraordinary recognition is a true testament to your distinguished career, unwavering commitment to the rule of law, and your unwavering dedication to the fair administration of justice.

“Your judicial experience, impeccable legal acumen, and principled leadership will be invaluable in guiding the Nigerian judiciary through this transitional period.

“Your reputation as a jurist of the highest caliber inspires profound trust and assurance that you will uphold the integrity of the Supreme Court and further strengthen the public’s faith in our cherished judicial system.

“I have had the distinct honor of appearing before your esteemed presence on several occasions, and I have witnessed firsthand, your formidable intellect, unwavering impartiality, and steadfast defense of the rule of law,” he said.

“This reputation for being a no-nonsense, yet impartial jurist will undoubtedly be instrumental in restoring the public’s confidence in the judiciary.”