CJN Kekere-Ekun Urges Code of Conduct Tribunal to Safeguard Independence, Uphold Integrity
The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has charged the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT) to jealously guard its independence and maintain the highest standards of integrity in the discharge of its constitutional mandate.
Speaking in Abuja during a courtesy visit by members of the Tribunal led by its Chairman, Mainasara Umar, the CJN emphasized that the Tribunal must operate strictly within the jurisdiction conferred by the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and uphold the rule of law without fear or favour.
According to a statement issued by her Senior Special Assistant on Media, Tobi Soniyi, Umar sought the CJN’s support to strengthen the Tribunal’s efficiency and capacity, lamenting the poor state of its facilities and appealing for adequate resources to enable effective performance.
In her response, Justice Kekere-Ekun urged the Tribunal to adopt innovative and pragmatic approaches to address operational challenges, particularly the backlog of pending cases. She further advised close collaboration with the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) to ensure compliance with asset declaration requirements, suggesting proactive measures such as timely reminders to public officers.
The CJN reminded Tribunal members of their oath of office, stressing that the credibility of the Tribunal—and indeed the entire judicial system—rests on the integrity and impartiality of its adjudicators.
“Remember always that the credibility of the Tribunal, and indeed the entire judicial system, rests on the integrity and impartiality of its adjudicators. Let your actions inspire confidence in the institution you now lead,” she stated.
Justice Kekere-Ekun also encouraged the Tribunal to leverage training opportunities at the National Judicial Institute (NJI) through seminars and workshops to enhance the capacity of both members and supporting staff.
