The Emir of Kano, His Highness, Khalifa Muhammad Sanusi II asked Nigerian judges has challenged Judges , especially, Justices of the Supreme Court to remember that they are accountable to God in the course of their duties.
Speaking on Saturday at a public discourse in Lagos which had the theme, “Ethics, Morality And The Law”, held in honour of Justice Habeed Abiru who was recently elevated as a justice of Supreme Court Justice, Emir Sanusi charged them to always carry ou their functions with the fear of God.
The Emir, who revealed that he has resolved not to be controversial, however told Judges not to allow hatred for people to make them do what is not right.
He made it clear that judges should focus more on substantive justice, and not rely on technicalities while delivering judgements as has been the case for sometime.
“Do not be an advocate for wrongdoers and do not be an advocate for those who deceive themselves, because Allah does not love sinful wrongdoers.
“When your friends come to you, when the government comes to you, and you listen to them and you tilt judgement in their favour. Ask yourself, who will be your advocate before God, on the Day of Judgment?
In her speech, the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, pointed out that the Nigerian Judiciary has a lot of upright knowledgeable, hardworking and courageous judges, but lamented that there are a few tarnishing this reputation.
Justice Kekere-Ekun, who Chaired the event enjoined Judges to remember that as “individuals, each person is accountable to his or herself and to God”.
She reminded them that public acceptance of the law also hinges on its alignment with fundamental principles, the need for clarity, stability and independence of the judiciary, as well as the fair exercise of authority by law enforcement.
The CJN opined that the perspective of the ordinary citizen, who observes and assesses the extent to which ethics, morality and the law coexist harmoniously in society must be taken into consideration.
“Public acceptance of the law also hinges on its alignment with fundamental principles, the need for clarity, stability and independence of the judiciary, as well as the fair exercise of authority by law enforcement”, she noted.
Speaking on the theme “Ethics, Morality and the Law – Christian Perspective, the Very Reverend Professor Konyinsola Ajayi SAN condemned what he termed “lawlessness in the law” and charged Legal professionals to reflect on the role of ethics and morality within the judiciary.
Ajayi cited specific cases as examples of the judicial system’s failure, including the controversy surrounding the Emir of Kano, which he described as “an emanation of lawlessness.”
According to him “The law today is providing the greatest uncertainty you can think about. The Nigerian judiciary was one of the best in the world. Australia, New Zealand, and the Commonwealth referenced Nigerian court decisions”.
