The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, on Wednesday said that Nigeria’s constitution is the only standard for dispensing justice, News About Nigeria reports.
He also noted that public opinions no matter how serious or weighty they might be, cannot supersede the provisions of the law.
The CJN who said this after administering the oath of office to the newly appointed judges of the Federal High Court of Nigeria, stated that justices and judges in the nation only base their judgement on the provisions of the law.
In his words: “Several vitriolic attacks are regularly heaped on the judiciary. It is, however, crystal clear that public opinions, no matter how serious or weighty it might be, cannot override or supersede the Constitution of the country which we apply in deciding each case.”
Speaking to the newly appointed judges, Ariwoola warned that their appointment is not an avenue to amass wealth as such would not be condoned within the judicial system.
He also noted that the National Judicial Council would punish anyone found wanting accordingly.
“Appointment to the bench is not an appointment to wealth, vainglory, dishonest disposition or ostentatious lifestyle through corrupt acquaintances.
“So, be careful and take heed, or else, you may end up regretting ever being appointed a judicial officer. Though, we don’t wish you such, anyway.”
The CJN who said that the nation is facing challenging and perilous times that demand for judicial officers who are calculative, honest, objective and dispassionate in all ramifications, charged the judges to be honest, impartial and fair to all while discharging their duties.
