The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, has urged judges in the country to uphold and protect the rule of law in the discharge of their duties.
Ariwoola, made the call at the induction course for newly appointed judges of the superior courts of record, held at the National Judicial Institute, in Abuja.
Ariwoola, speaking through Justice Jummai Hannatu Sankey, advised the newly appointed judges seek guidance through education and support from fellow judges.
He said, “You will often face complex cases that will also come with ethical dilemmas, you will occasionally be presented with cases that require you to make difficult decisions but always remember that Justice is not a destination to be arrived at with fanfare and parades or accolades but a continuous pursuit to which you must not be afraid to stay the course on the side of fairness and integrity.
“You must remain steadfast in the face of whatever challenges that may arise by upholding and protecting the rule of law, your integrity and that of the judiciary.”
The CJN noted that the role of judges is a critical one that demands an understanding of their position as priests in the temple of justice and defenders of the rule of law.
