Activist lawyer Deji Adeyanju has urged the incoming Chief Justice of the Federation, CJN, Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, to reform the judiciary by addressing some longstanding issues.
Adeyanju’s statement titled “Agendas before the Incoming CJN, Hon. Justice Kekere Ekun” reads partly: “Your imminent leadership presents a unique opportunity to address longstanding issues, from case backlogs and judicial inefficiencies to concerns over transparency and corruption. By implementing targeted reforms and innovative initiatives, you have the potential to revitalize the judiciary, ensuring it meets the demands of modern justice and better serves the Nigerian public.
“One of the most pressing issues facing the judiciary today is the need for reform. The current system is fraught with inefficiencies that hinder the timely delivery of justice.
“Delays in court proceedings, case backlogs, and procedural complexities have eroded public confidence in the judiciary’s ability to dispense justice fairly and promptly.
“A thorough and systematic reform of the judiciary is essential. This would involve streamlining court processes, enhancing case management, and adopting practices that reduce delays and ensure that justice is both swift and accessible.
“Such reforms are crucial for reinforcing the rule of law and restoring the faith of Nigerians in their legal system.”
Adeyanju further articulated: “Another critical issue that must be addressed is the pervasive corruption within the judiciary. Corruption not only undermines the integrity of the legal system but also perpetuates injustice and inequality.
“It is imperative, my Lord, that you take a firm and unequivocal stand against corruption in all its forms. This requires the implementation of strict anti-corruption measures, ensuring transparency in judicial appointments, and establishing robust accountability mechanisms.
“Judges and court officials must be held to the highest ethical standards, with any breaches of these standards met with swift and decisive action. Eradicating corruption within the judiciary is not just a matter of policy but a moral imperative that will determine the credibility and legitimacy of the entire legal system. In this digital age, the judiciary cannot afford to remain analogue.”
He urged the incoming CJN to address the need to digitalise the justice system in Nigeria.
According to him, implementing e-filing systems, enabling virtual court proceedings in the Supreme Court, and digitalization of records management would reduce delays.
He also called for the reduction of legal fees, saying: “A review and reduction of these fees are necessary to make the legal system more equitable and accessible. By lowering the financial barriers to justice, the judiciary can ensure that all Nigerians, regardless of their economic status, have the opportunity to seek and obtain justice.”
While noting that “the centralization of appeals to the Supreme Court has long contributed to delays in the judicial process,” Adeyanju urged the incoming CJN to initiate a reform in this regard.
“Regional Supreme Courts will ensure that appeals are processed more efficiently and swiftly. I urge that my noble Lord kindly make this the first priority by interfacing with the National Assembly with a view to commencing urgent constitutional reforms on the judiciary,” he said.
The activist further appealed to Justice Kekere-Ekun: “With your decisive action and commitment to these critical reforms, you can redefine the Nigerian judiciary, setting new standards of excellence, integrity, and fairness.
“The nation looks forward to a judiciary that is reformed, free from corruption, technologically advanced, financially accessible, and efficient in its operations. We trust that this vision will guide your tenure and help build a justice system that serves all Nigerians.”