BARRISTER SLY EZEOKENWA, APGA NATIONAL CHAIRMAN, URGES FOR A STRONG AND INDEPENDENT JUDICIARY IN NIGERIA, STRESSING THE IMPORTANCE OF FAIRNESS AND JUSTICE IN THE COUNTRY’S LEGAL SYSTEM
As President Tinubu swears in the new Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, at the State House in Abuja. The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including other Supreme Court Justices, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. Justice Kekere-Ekun will serve as the Chief Justice in an acting capacity until her confirmation by the Senate. She is the second woman to hold this position in Nigeria.
The nation is reminded of the crucial role the judiciary plays in upholding the rule of law and ensuring justice for all. In a statement, APGA National Chairman, Barrister Sly Ezeokenwa, emphasized the need for a strong and independent judiciary, unencumbered by external influences.
“A strong judiciary is the bedrock of democracy,” Barrister Sly noted. “It is the guardian of our constitution, the protector of our rights, and the arbiter of disputes. But for the judiciary to effectively discharge its duties, it must be independent, impartial, and fearless.”
Barrister Sly highlighted the challenges facing the judiciary, including inadequate funding, infrastructure deficits, and the lingering perception of corruption. “These challenges undermine the integrity of the judiciary and erode public trust,” he said.
To build a strong and independent judiciary, Barrister Sly called among other things for:
- Increased funding to improve infrastructure and enhance the welfare of judicial officers.
- Robust appointment processes to ensure merit-based selection of judges.
- Strengthened judicial accountability mechanisms to prevent corruption.
- Improved access to justice for marginalized communities.
- Enhanced judicial training and capacity building.
As the new Chief Justice of the Federation assumes office, Barrister Sly urged the judiciary to prioritize justice and fairness in the adjudication of cases. “The judiciary must be a beacon of hope for the common man, a symbol of justice and fairness in a society where the powerful often seek to exploit the weak.”
In conclusion, Barrister Sly Ezeokenwa, emphasized the need for collective action to build a strong and independent judiciary.
“Let us work together to create a judiciary that is truly independent, impartial, and fearless. A judiciary that will uphold the rule of law, protect our rights, and ensure justice for all.”
For and on-behalf of Barrister Sly Ezeokenwa APGA, National Chairman
