The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has issued a potent call to action, emphasizing the critical need for security agencies, particularly the police force, to uphold the sanctity of court orders and ensure the protection of human rights. This appeal underscores the growing concern over the erosion of public trust in the justice system due to increasing instances of non-compliance with judicial pronouncements by law enforcement agencies. During a meeting with the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, the CJN stressed that adherence to the rule of law necessitates unwavering respect for court decisions, emphasizing that disobedience undermines the integrity of both the judiciary and law enforcement. This foundational principle forms the cornerstone of a just and equitable society, and its violation threatens to destabilize the delicate balance between the branches of government and erode public faith in the legal process.
Justice Kekere-Ekun’s address to the IGP detailed specific concerns and recommendations aimed at rectifying the current state of affairs and strengthening the criminal justice system. Foremost among these was the imperative for the police force to enforce court judgments and orders promptly and without reservation. She highlighted the detrimental impact of delayed or ignored orders on the public’s perception of justice, urging the IGP to issue clear directives to ensure compliance within the police ranks. This call for decisive action reflects the urgency of the situation and the need for a demonstrable commitment to upholding the rule of law within the police force. The CJN’s message emphasized that the police, as the primary enforcers of the law, have a crucial role to play in maintaining the integrity of the justice system and fostering public trust.
Further emphasizing the importance of judicial independence and safety, the CJN expressed deep concern about threats and intimidation directed at judges, court officials, and litigants, particularly in cases with high public profiles or political implications. This underscores the vulnerability of the judicial process to external pressures and the necessity of strong safeguards to ensure its integrity. She requested the IGP’s support in providing adequate security measures to protect judicial officers from harassment and intimidation, proposing increased police presence at court premises, especially in volatile areas. This request highlights the importance of creating a secure environment for the dispensation of justice, free from external threats and pressures that could compromise its impartiality.
Beyond the physical security of judicial personnel, Justice Kekere-Ekun emphasized the need for robust protection of the rights of all individuals within the justice system. She reiterated the importance of adhering to constitutional safeguards, including the right to legal representation, the right to be informed of charges, and the right to a swift trial. These fundamental rights are the cornerstones of a fair and just legal system, and their consistent application is essential to ensuring that justice is served for all. The CJN particularly stressed the need to protect vulnerable groups, including women, children, and persons with disabilities, who are often disproportionately affected by violations of these rights.
The CJN’s message extended to the critical issue of adherence to the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015, a landmark piece of legislation designed to reform the Nigerian criminal justice system. She underscored the importance of complying with provisions prohibiting arrest in lieu, inhumane treatment of suspects, and the mandatory electronic recording of confessional statements. Specifically, she reminded the police that arresting family members or associates in place of a suspect is illegal under Section 7 of the ACJA. This practice, often used as a coercive tactic, undermines the fundamental rights of individuals and erodes public trust in law enforcement.
Justice Kekere-Ekun called for decisive internal disciplinary measures within the police force to address these concerns, advocating for mechanisms to monitor and prevent police brutality. Accountability for officers who violate the law is essential to deterring future misconduct and rebuilding public confidence in the police. This emphasis on internal oversight underscores the CJN’s commitment to systemic reform within the police force, moving beyond addressing individual incidents to addressing the underlying culture that allows such violations to occur. Furthermore, the CJN reiterated the constitutional obligation to treat all suspects with dignity and respect, highlighting the prohibition of torture, inhumane, or degrading treatment under Section 8(1) of the ACJA.
Addressing the root causes of delays and inefficiencies within the justice system, Justice Kekere-Ekun identified poor investigative processes, inadequate case preparation, and delays in prosecution as key contributors to prolonged trials and prison congestion. These systemic issues contribute to the denial of justice for both victims and accused persons, highlighting the need for a holistic approach to reform. She advised the police and related agencies to prioritize thorough investigations before filing charges, a crucial step in preventing cases from being dismissed due to insufficient evidence. This proactive approach would not only streamline the judicial process but also conserve valuable resources and reduce the burden on an already overstretched system.
Finally, the CJN advocated for improved coordination and collaboration between the police, the Ministry of Justice, and the judiciary to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the prosecution process. This collaborative approach aims to create a seamless flow of information and procedures, ensuring that cases are handled expeditiously and fairly. By strengthening the linkages between these key actors in the justice system, the CJN envisions a more robust and responsive system that effectively addresses crime while safeguarding the rights of all involved. The CJN’s address serves as a powerful reminder of the fundamental role of law enforcement in upholding the rule of law and protecting the rights of all citizens. Her call for action resonates beyond the halls of justice, urging a collective commitment to building a more just and equitable society.
