The dinner organized by the Governor of Lagos State to celebrate the appointment of Justice Kekere-Ekun as the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) has aroused some controversy. Some have argued that her attendance at such a dinner is unethical and undermines the integrity of the judiciary.
This argument is without merit. Her attendance at the celebration does not breach any ethical standards as a judicial officer, nor does it compromise the integrity of her office as CJN or the impartiality expected of her role. It is essential to recognize that this event was not only a personal celebration of Justice Kekere-Ekun’s remarkable achievement but also a proud moment for Lagos State, as she is the first indigene of the state to be appointed to the highest judicial office in the country, a truly historic feat that is certainly worth celebrating.
Contrary to what some may believe, being a judicial officer does not mean one must be excluded from participating in public functions or celebrations, particularly those that honour personal accomplishments. The ethical standards governing judicial officers are focused on impartiality, independence, and integrity. These standards do not prohibit our judicial officers from attending public events, provided these events do not involve actions that could influence their judicial duties or create a conflict of interest. The dinner in question was not a political rally or an event designed to sway Justice Kekere-Ekun’s decisions. It was simply a celebration of a significant achievement for both her personally and for the state of Lagos. The fact that the Governor hosted the dinner does not make it a political endorsement or imply that the CJN is now obligated to act in a politically biased manner.
Judges regularly attend public events that celebrate their professional achievements or honour their contributions to society, without any suggestion that this undermines their impartiality. For instance, Judges often participate in award ceremonies, academic conferences, and even public swearing-in ceremonies for new public officials. These events, like the dinner hosted by the Governor, are public celebrations of professional success and are not inherently problematic in terms of judicial ethics. Judges in many countries are invited to attend and speak at events recognizing their achievements or contributions to the legal profession, and this does not diminish their impartiality or integrity in any way.
The integrity of the judiciary is upheld by its adherence to the rule of law and the ethical standards that guide judicial behaviour, not by whether a Judge attends a celebratory dinner. To suggest otherwise is to imply that Judges should isolate themselves completely from society, which is an untenable position. Judges, including the CJN, are members of society, and being celebrated for their accomplishments is a reflection of the value the public places on their contributions to the rule of law and governance.
Justice Kekere-Ekun’s ability to carry out her duties as CJN will be determined by her commitment to the law, her adherence to judicial ethics, and her ability to maintain independence in decision-making, none of which are threatened by her attendance at a public event celebrating her recent appointment. While it is certainly acceptable to critique the judiciary and to raise concerns about its operations and practices, such criticism must be tempered with common sense. It is unfair to use every opportunity to undermine the judiciary, especially when it involves a celebration of a historic achievement like Justice Kekere-Ekun’s appointment. Her elevation to the office of CJN is a milestone not just for her, but for the state of Lagos and for the country. It is a recognition of her excellence in the legal profession, and her being the first indigene of Lagos State to attain such an honour is indeed a significant accomplishment.
In conclusion, there is nothing wrong with a state celebrating the achievements of one of its own, and there is no ethical breach in Justice Kekere-Ekun attending a dinner to mark her historic appointment as the CJN. Criticism of the judiciary is important and welcome, but it must be grounded in reason and fairness. To suggest that attending such a celebration undermines the integrity of the judiciary or the impartiality of the CJN is an exaggerated and unfounded claim. The judiciary has its challenges, but abandoning common sense in criticism does a disservice to the integrity of the entire system. There is absolutely no cause for concern in this celebration. On the contrary, it is a moment of pride for Lagos State and the nation as a whole.
Tunde Ahmed Adejumo.
11th day of November 202