The Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, Kabir Akanbi, has called on judiciary correspondents across the country to remain objective, balanced, and fair in their reportage of judicial activities, urging them to protect the image and integrity of the Nigerian judiciary.
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Akanbi made the call over the weekend in Abuja while receiving the executive members of the National Association of Judiciary Correspondents (NAJUC), Abuja chapter, led by Mr. Kayode Lawal of DAILY POST, during a courtesy visit.
Addressing the delegation, the Chief Registrar expressed concern over the increasing trend of sensational and poorly researched reports, particularly on social media, which he said often cast the judiciary in a negative light. He warned against painting the entire judiciary with a broad brush based on the perceived failings of a few individuals.
“It is very unpatriotic and unfair to label the judiciary, particularly judicial officers, as failing the expectations of Nigerians in the dispensation of justice, simply because of a few lapses,” Akanbi said.
He emphasized that the vast majority of judicial officers in Nigeria are professionals of honour, integrity, and academic distinction who carry out their duties without fear or favour. He assured that the National Judicial Council (NJC) is actively addressing the conduct of erring officers to preserve the sanctity of the judiciary.
Akanbi noted that most judicial officers do not have media aides or spokespersons to counter misleading narratives, making them vulnerable to unfair criticism. He cautioned that unverified and sensational reporting, often done for online traction, not only damages the image of the judiciary but also tarnishes the reputation of Nigeria internationally.
“When these reports are reeled out to the public without proper fact-checking, the public believes them. In the end, it is Nigeria’s name that is dragged in the mud,” he lamented.
The Chief Registrar called for strengthened collaboration between the judiciary and NAJUC to ensure accurate and responsible reporting of judicial developments.
Earlier, NAJUC Abuja Chairman, Mr. Kayode Lawal, congratulated Akanbi on his appointment and described it as a well-deserved recognition of his legal acumen and administrative capacity. He assured the Chief Registrar of NAJUC’s commitment to maintaining professionalism, fairness, and factual accuracy in covering judicial activities.
Also speaking at the event, Barrister Tobi Soniyi, Special Assistant (Media) to the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, reaffirmed the long-standing relationship between NAJUC and the Supreme Court. He urged that the cordiality be preserved and enhanced going forward.
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