President Bola Tinubu on Monday cautioned judicial officers across Nigeria to maintain the sanctity of justice, declaring that “justice must never be for sale.”
He made the remarks while opening the 2025 All Nigerian Judges’ Conference of the Superior Courts in Abuja.
Tinubu opens 2025 judges’ conference
Speaking to judges from across the country, Tinubu emphasised that judicial officers are the true custodians of the rule of law and must lead by example in upholding ethical standards.
He highlighted that integrity, discipline, and transparency are essential to sustaining public trust in the courts.
“Justice must never be for sale, and the Bench must never become a sanctuary for compromise. Corruption in any arm of government weakens the nation, but corruption in the Judiciary destroys it at its core,” the President said.
Tinubu also addressed systemic challenges within the judiciary, noting the growing backlog of cases and slow delivery of justice.
Calls for reform, digitisation, and efficient case management
He warned that delays and procedural inefficiencies undermine democracy and erode citizens’ confidence in the legal system.
“The backlog of cases in our courts must be addressed with urgency. Our courts must no longer be places where cases languish for years. Justice exists for the people, and their faith in the judicial process is the foundation of our national stability,” he added.
The President assured judges that his administration will continue to invest in judicial capacity, welfare, and training through institutions like the National Judicial Institute.
He also stressed the role of technology in reforming court processes, advocating for digitisation and integrated case management to improve efficiency and accountability.
Tinubu urged judicial officers to embrace reforms that would make justice more accessible, affordable, and timely.
He reminded the conference that safeguarding the integrity of the judiciary is a responsibility shared by all judges, not only the National Judicial Council.
“Support must be tangible, not ceremonial. We will prioritise modern infrastructure, digital processes, and efficient case management. A digital, transparent judiciary will deepen accountability and public trust,” he stated.
Closing his remarks, Tinubu highlighted the critical role of fair and courageous rulings in strengthening Nigeria’s democracy.
He expressed confidence that the conference would produce resolutions that reinforce the judiciary as the guardian of the nation’s democratic ideals.
“Each fair judgment strengthens the Republic; each courageous ruling preserves its soul,” the President said.