Senate Tasks New CJN on Court Reforms

• Senate President Godswill Akpabio urged Chief Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun to implement reforms for efficient justice delivery and address prison congestion
• Akpabio emphasized the need for consistency in court rulings, expressing confidence in Kekere-Ekun’s ability to bring positive change to the judiciary

The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has urged the newly sworn-in Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, to lead reforms to improve the efficiency and speed of justice delivery in Nigeria. He emphasized the need for consistency in court rulings and called for measures to address challenges like prison congestion and the prolonged detention of awaiting-trial inmates.

Speaking on Monday to State House Correspondents after Justice Kekere-Ekun’s swearing-in at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Akpabio expressed concern over the inconsistency of court judgments on similar matters and highlighted the importance of ensuring uniformity in legal decisions across different courts, especially at the lower court levels.

Akpabio noted, “A situation where courts deliver different judgments on the same issue is problematic. The new CJN has the experience and capability to address this and bring about positive change.”

The Senate President also pointed out the need to accelerate the legal process, particularly in land disputes and long periods of pre-trial detention. He stressed the importance of reforms to ensure fair treatment for those awaiting trial, especially when individuals spend more time in prison than their eventual sentence.

Additionally, Akpabio reassured that the Senate is committed to supporting the judiciary in implementing these reforms, stating that the National Assembly will not be a “rubber stamp” but will take actions that help stabilize the country.

Regarding Justice Kekere-Ekun’s confirmation, Akpabio stated that the Senate had no issues with her appointment, noting that she was highly qualified and had already proven herself as Acting Chief Justice of Nigeria. He praised her impeccable moral standards and integrity throughout her career, from her time as a magistrate to her role as a judge in Lagos, and expressed confidence in her ability to lead the judiciary effectively.