The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, has underscored that public opinion, no matter how significant, cannot supersede or override the constitution of the country.
He has called upon judges in Nigeria to consistently apply constitutional provisions in their decisions on cases brought before them.
Justice Ariwoola made this clarification during the inauguration of 23 Judges for the Federal High Court of Nigeria at the Supreme Court in Abuja.
He acknowledged that the judiciary frequently faces harsh criticism, but he stressed that public opinion, regardless of its seriousness, cannot take precedence over the Constitution.
The CJN explained that judicial officers have a responsibility to uphold moral rectitude and acceptable conduct while earning the trust of the Nigerian populace, especially those who rely on them for justice.
He emphasized the importance of the judicial oath and the need for judges to be above temptations and trials.
Justice Ariwoola stated, “The bench is neither for the indolent, the greedy nor those with dubious character, who can easily fall for a plate of porridge offered by desperate litigants.
“You must, at all times, rise above temptations and trials that might obstruct or even halt your rise to the pinnacle of your career. We are all humans, no doubt, but you display the humanism in you by doing those extraordinary things that people would ordinarily conclude that you cannot do.”
He highlighted that judicial appointments are not pathways to wealth, dishonesty, or ostentatious lifestyles through corrupt connections, emphasizing that the National Judicial Council (NJC) has the means to detect and address any form of corruption or misconduct among judicial officers.
The CJN concluded by reminding the newly appointed judges of their duty to be impartial, fair, and just in all matters they preside over.
He stressed the importance of upholding justice, especially in the challenging times Nigeria faces.
Justice Ariwoola emphasized the vital role judges play in upholding the Constitution and ensuring justice for all citizens, while also warning against any unethical behavior that may tarnish the judiciary’s reputation.