2027 Elections: CJN Warns Judges Against Conduct That Could Undermine Public Trust

The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has cautioned judges against maintaining contacts with political parties involved in election disputes ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The warning is aimed at protecting the independence of the judiciary and ensuring that election-related cases are handled without political influence or the appearance of bias.

Kekere-Ekun gave the warning during the flag-off ceremony of the 2026/2027 legal year of the National Industrial Court of Nigeria, where she addressed the responsibilities of judicial officers as the country prepares for another general election.

She stressed that judges who may be assigned to election petition tribunals must exercise caution in their public engagements and personal associations to avoid situations that could raise questions about their impartiality.

The CJN noted that the conduct of judicial officers would be closely watched, particularly when they handle politically sensitive cases involving candidates and political parties.

She urged judges to uphold the principles of fairness, independence and professionalism, stressing that public confidence in the judiciary depends on the ability of courts to dispense justice without favouring any political interest.

Kekere-Ekun also warned lawyers against filing similar cases in multiple courts in an attempt to obtain favourable judgments or create conflicting judicial decisions.

She said legal practitioners must respect the judicial process and ensure that cases are filed before courts with the appropriate jurisdiction.