The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Walter Onnoghen, has for the umpteenth time urged judicial officers to defend the independence of judiciary.
The CJN made the call in his address at the swearing in of Justice Sidi Bage and Justice Paul Galinje as justices of the Supreme Court of Nigeria on Monday in Abuja.
He said the only way to protect the judiciary was for judges and justices to maintain the demand for the highest standards of integrity, fairness and justice.
Onnoghen said: “I have no doubt in my mind that the new justices of this hallowed temple of justice will live up to these ideals and expectations.
“You are coming to the Supreme Court at a time when the third arm of government, the Judiciary, is witnessing very challenging times.
“This should not make you despair, but rather, spur you on to greater commitment to defend the integrity and independence of the judiciary.”
“Failure to defend this institution would mean failing the citizens of this nation who have placed their hope in the judiciary for fair and equitable dispensation of justice.
“I, therefore, urge you to always remain above board in the discharge of your duties in your new role.
“Your lordships must strive at all times to be faithful to the oath of office and oath of allegiance you took today as you will ultimately give account of your stewardship.
“We must constantly be reminded of the importance of preserving and protecting the judiciary which by its constitutional mandate is the foundation of the rule of law in any society.
“Any threat to that foundation, including threat to its independence, portends danger for such society as the citizens will ultimately bear the brunt.”
The CJN assured the new justices that the National Judicial Council was poised more than ever before to restore confidence in the judiciary, as well as defend its independence and integrity.
Onnoghen said the Council would continue to review the guidelines and practice rules “as the need arises in the time we live”.
Bage and Galinje are from Nasarawa and Taraba States respectively.
The occasion attracted justices, judges, senior legal practitioners, as well as representatives of governments from the home states of the new justices.
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