The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, has emphasized that public opinions, regardless of gravity, cannot surpass the constitution in legal disputes. This statement came during the swearing-in of 23 new judges of the Federal High Court, including his son, Ariwoola Jr.
Justice Ariwoola stressed the judges’ duty to follow the law when deciding cases. He cautioned against the vitriolic attacks regularly faced by the judiciary, highlighting that public opinions, no matter how serious, cannot override the constitution applied in every case.
Addressing the newly-appointed judges, the CJN made it clear that their appointment is not an opportunity for wealth accumulation. He warned against any form of wrongdoing, stating that the National Judicial Council (NJC) would take strict action if misconduct is detected. The CJN emphasized that the NJC possesses the authority to conscientize, chastise, and sanitize the conscience of judges found wanting.
He urged the judges to be honest, impartial, and fair in their duties, emphasizing the need for calculative, honest, objective, and dispassionate judicial officers in these perilous times. The CJN concluded by stating that their appointments to the bench at this crucial period are not accidental but a result of divine ordination.
