CJN Calls For Transparency In Conduct Of Court’s Affairs

The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Ibrahim Muhammad, has called on judicial workers to make transparency and integrity their watchword in the conduct of court’s affairs across the country.

Justice Muhammad stated that transparency on the part of court workers would enhance better justice delivery as well as win public perception.

He spoke Monday in Abuja while declaring open the 2021 National Workshop for Chief Registrars, Deputy Chief Registrars, Directors and Secretaries of the Judicial Service Commission/Committee.

The workshop was organized by the National Judicial Institute (NJI).

Speaking at the occasion, the CJN whose speech was presented by the Administrator, NJI, Justice Salisu Garuba, said: “There is no doubt that an open operation of our justice system creates an increased flow of information to the society, which in turn enables the public to be well acquainted in terms of our performance in the judiciary.”

While stressing that the establishment of a transparent system facilitates access to all and safeguards human rights, he urged the participants to adhere to the provisions of the Code of Conduct for court employees within and outside the court premises.

He also called for synergy among court staff to ensure that the judiciary continues to function optimally.

He therefore urged participants to pay rapt attention to the issues raised and discussed at the workshop so as to acquire “fresh and wide repertoire of information and knowledge, which will be of immense benefit in their different areas of service as well as the judicial arm of government”.

Earlier, in a welcome address, the NJI administrator reminded participants that by the nature of their job, they are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that puts the judiciary in a positive light.

Garuba, whose speech was presented by the Overseer/Deputy Director, Studies Department, NJI, Mr Olumo Abdul-Azeez, urged the participants to be proactive, anticipate possible situations and implement policies that will address potential challenges.

“Furthermore, it is important for you to note that your duties, be it expressly or partially, directly or indirectly affect the course of justice. This is why it is imperative that you, as image-makers of the judiciary remain committed to the course of justice, shun all forms of misconduct and corrupt practices in the discharge of your duties,” he said.

He said that the theme of the workshop, ‘Promoting Integrity and Transparency in the Administration of Justice’, was apt as it reinforces the desire of the CJN to enhance transparency in the administration of justice as well as speedy dispensation of justice in the country’s court system.