CJN Kekere-Ekun Orders Code of Conduct Tribunal to Uphold Independence, Combat Backlog and Enforce Ethics

The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Hon. Justice Kudirat Motomori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun, today, Thursday, November 6, 2025, laid down a firm mandate for the leadership of the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT), urging the body to fiercely protect its judicial independence and operate with uncompromising integrity.

The CJN gave the charge in Abuja when she received the Chairman of the Tribunal, Mr. Mainasara Umar, and other members who paid her a courtesy visit seeking collaboration and support from the leadership of the Judiciary.

In her address, Justice Kekere-Ekun stressed that the CCT, which is responsible for adjudicating cases of misconduct against public officers, holds a strategic position in the nation’s fight against corruption.

“You must jealously guard your independence and maintain the highest standards of integrity in the discharge of your constitutional duties,” the CJN advised the Tribunal members. “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.”

Addressing Operational Challenges and Case Backlogs

The CCT Chairman, Mr. Umar, had earlier lamented the poor state of the Tribunal’s facilities and appealed for support and adequate resources to enhance efficiency and address the huge backlog of pending cases.

Responding to the operational challenges, the CJN urged the CCT to adopt innovative and pragmatic approaches, stressing that efficiency and timely dispensation of justice are paramount to sustaining public trust.

Furthermore, Justice Kekere-Ekun directed the Tribunal to operate strictly within the jurisdiction conferred upon it by the 1999 Constitution (as amended). She also proposed a proactive collaboration between the CCT and the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB), suggesting that both institutions should work together to ensure that public officers receive timely reminders and comply with mandatory asset declaration requirements.

The CJN concluded by urging the Tribunal members to uphold their oath of office, administer the law “without fear or favour, affection or ill will,” and take advantage of continuous training opportunities at the National Judicial Institute (NJI).