The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has sworn in 375 judges appointed to serve on Election Petition Tribunals for the 2027 general elections, charging them to uphold judicial independence and resist all forms of political pressure.
Speaking at a ceremony organised by the Court of Appeal on Monday, which also featured a capacity-building workshop, the CJN urged the judges to remain impartial and faithful to their judicial oath while handling election-related disputes.
Kekere-Ekun stressed that although election petitions require speedy resolution, the need for urgency must not override the principles of fair hearing and justice.
She also cautioned legal practitioners against filing multiple suits or seeking conflicting court orders in a bid to gain advantage in electoral matters, noting that such actions could erode public confidence in the judiciary.
The CJN further appealed to public officials, citizens and media organisations to refrain from spreading unverified information or making statements capable of influencing cases pending before the courts.
Also speaking at the event, the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, underscored the importance of effective electoral dispute resolution in sustaining political stability and strengthening democratic governance.
According to him, the success of the election tribunals will depend on the competence of judges, efficient court registry operations and the deployment of experienced administrative personnel.
Fagbemi urged tribunal members to base their judgments strictly on the provisions of the Constitution, the Electoral Act and evidence presented before them, stressing the need to preserve public trust in the electoral and judicial processes.
The inauguration of the tribunal judges marks a key step in preparations for the 2027 general elections, with judicial authorities emphasising integrity, professionalism and adherence to the rule of law in the adjudication of electoral disputes.
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