Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, the Chief Justice of Nigeria, and Lateef Fagbemi, the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, warned judges against political pressure as the country prepared for the 2027 general elections.
They spoke on Monday in Abuja during the swearing-in of 375 judicial officers nominated for the Election Petition Tribunals. The ceremony formed part of a capacity-building workshop organised by the Court of Appeal.
Justice Kekere-Ekun told the judges that electoral disputes must rest strictly on evidence and the law. She said the courtroom must not become an extension of the political arena.
“Public opinion and the popularity of a candidate cannot be substituted for legal proof,” she stated. She added that judicial officers must show patience, courage and restraint.
Furthermore, she cautioned lawyers against filing multiple suits on similar issues or seeking conflicting orders from courts of equal status. She also warned against the use of ex parte applications for tactical gain.
In addition, Justice Kekere-Ekun urged political parties, candidates and public officials to avoid comments that could intimidate judges or prejudice pending cases.
Meanwhile, Lateef Fagbemi described the tribunals as essential for peaceful resolution of electoral grievances. He told the judges to remain free from intimidation or inducement.
“An erroneous decision may take another four years to correct,” he said. He also called on the Nigerian Bar Association to issue a code of conduct for lawyers handling election cases.
Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, President of the Court of Appeal, confirmed that 138 of the nominees had prior tribunal experience while 237 were new. She urged them to resist every form of improper influence.
Presidential and National Assembly elections are scheduled for 16 January 2027, with governorship and state assembly polls set for 6 February 2027.
