President Bola Tinubu has warned Nigeria’s judicial officers that justice must remain sacred and free from corruption, declaring unequivocally that “justice must never be for sale.”
Speaking at the opening of the 2025 All Nigerian Judges’ Conference of the Superior Courts in Abuja, Tinubu emphasized that judges are the true custodians of justice. He assured ongoing investment in judicial welfare, training, and the National Judicial Institute.
The President stressed that continuous learning and ethical renewal must define the Bench, but added that no reform can succeed without unwavering integrity.
“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,” Tinubu said.
He further highlighted the importance of firm and transparent judicial discipline, insisting that safeguarding court integrity is the responsibility of every judicial officer, not just the National Judicial Council.
Addressing the growing backlog of cases and slow justice delivery, Tinubu called for bold, practical reforms to restore public trust.
“The backlog of cases in our courts must be addressed with urgency. Justice exists for the people, and their faith in the judicial process is the foundation of our national stability,” he said.
Tinubu acknowledged public frustration over delayed judgments and questionable conduct, urging honest reflection and decisive action.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving judicial capacity, working conditions, and infrastructure, stressing the central role of technology. Digitization and integrated case management, he said, will underpin future reforms.
“Support must be tangible, not ceremonial. Modern infrastructure, digital processes, and efficient case management will deepen accountability and public trust,” he added, urging judges to implement reforms that enhance discipline, reduce court congestion, and make justice more accessible.
Declaring the conference open, Tinubu emphasized that Nigeria’s democracy continues to be shaped by the courage, fairness, and integrity of judicial decisions. “Each fair judgment strengthens the Republic; each courageous ruling preserves its soul,” he said.
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