The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, has said Nigeria is at crossroads and needs the service of honest judges who would promote the rule of law.
Ariwoola said this at the swearing-in of the newly appointed acting President of the Customary Court of Appeal of the Federal Capital Territory, Justice Stanley Lawal.
”Nigeria is currently plagued with myriads of problems that require sincere and honest interventions of judicial officers.
“We hear of corruption of various forms, killings, kidnappings, armed robbery, banditry, and all forms of terrorism against the state and individual citizens.
“Most often, these cases find their way to the court for the right and proper adjudication.
“At the two lower rungs of the judicial ladder, you are there to represent our interest and crystalise the image of the Nigerian Judiciary by doing justice to all matters that come before your Lordship. A lure with unmerited material possessions will not only weaken your reputation but equally impair your sense of judgment,” he said.
He said that was not his wish for the newly appointed judge. The CJN advised him to always be very careful and vigilant too.
Admonishing him further, the CJN said, “In everything you do in the course of adjudicating, you must consult your God, the Constitution and your conscience.
“Always have at the back of your mind, as I believe you had always, that at every point of your life, someone somewhere is right behind you and taking note of all your conducts.’’
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