‘Perception Of Bias Can Be As Damaging As Actual Bias’ — CJN Demands Judicial Transparency

The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has expressed concern that despite concerted efforts, allegations of corruption, delays in justice dispensation, and bias persist in the judiciary.

Justice Kekere-Ekun made this remark on Monday in Abuja while declaring open the 2025 hybrid refresher course for judges of superior courts of record.

“In spite of our collective efforts, challenges persist. Allegations of corruption, delays in the dispensation of justice, and perceptions of bias or inefficiency remain issues of concern,” she said.

The CJN emphasized that these challenges have deeply impacted the judicial system.

“They undermine public confidence, weaken the judiciary’s authority, and create a dangerous gulf between the courts and the society they serve.

“The onus is therefore on us to confront these challenges head-on and reaffirm our commitment to judicial excellence,” she added.

While acknowledging the judiciary’s role as the guardian of justice, the final arbiter in disputes, and the custodian of constitutional order, she stressed that it does not operate in a vacuum.

“Its authority and effectiveness are inextricably linked to the trust and confidence the public reposes in it.

“Without public confidence, the judiciary’s moral authority is diminished, and its ability to discharge its constitutional mandate is impaired.

“However, public trust is neither assumed nor conferred; it must be earned and safeguarded through judicial integrity, professionalism, transparency, and an unwavering commitment to justice.”

“As judicial officers, we bear the solemn responsibility of ensuring that justice is dispensed with fairness, impartiality, and efficiency.

“It is not enough to be impartial; we must also be seen to be impartial. The perception of bias or impropriety can be as damaging as the reality itself,” Kekere-Ekun said.

In his remarks, the Administrator of the National Judicial Institute, retired Justice Salisu Abdullahi, stated that the theme of the course, “Strengthening Public Trust and Confidence in the Judiciary,” was highly relevant.

He emphasized that public trust is the foundation upon which the judiciary’s legitimacy is built.

“However, trust in the judiciary, like any cherished value, is neither automatic nor enduring without deliberate action.”

He urged the participants to earn public confidence through conduct that exemplifies impartiality, integrity, and diligence.

Abdullahi noted that the course would provide judges with an opportunity to reflect on and deliberate over issues that could erode trust and confidence in the judiciary.

“It will inevitably lead to the development of workable solutions to address identified challenges and aid in mapping out actionable strategies to strengthen public faith in the judicial system,” he said.

The refresher course is part of the institute’s efforts to ensure the continuous professional development of judicial officers.

The participants include judges of the Federal High Court, National Industrial Court, and State High Courts, as well as Kadis of the Sharia Court of Appeal and judges of the Customary Court of Appeal.

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