25, February 2025
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!She expressed concerns over the increasing disregard for judicial decisions by some law enforcement officers, stressing that the rule of law demands strict adherence to court rulings.
The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has urged security agencies to fully comply with court orders and uphold human rights, warning that disobedience undermines the integrity of the judiciary and public trust in law enforcement.
Justice Kekere-Ekun made the call when the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, led a delegation to pay her a courtesy visit in Abuja, according to a statement by her Senior Special Assistant on Media, Tobi Soniyi.
She expressed concerns over the increasing disregard for judicial decisions by some law enforcement officers, stressing that the rule of law demands strict adherence to court rulings.
She called on the IGP to issue clear directives ensuring that judgments are respected and promptly executed.
The CJN also raised concerns about threats faced by judges, court officials, and litigants, especially in high-profile or politically sensitive cases.
She urged the police to provide better security at court premises, particularly in areas prone to violence.
Justice Kekere-Ekun emphasised that protecting judicial officers from intimidation and harassment is essential to maintaining judicial independence and ensuring fair administration of justice.
The CJN noted the need for strict compliance with constitutional safeguards, including the right to legal representation, the right to be informed of charges, and the right to be promptly brought before a court.
She also underscored the importance of protecting vulnerable groups, such as women, children, and persons with disabilities.
Highlighting key provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015, she reiterated the prohibition of arresting individuals in lieu of a suspect, subjecting suspects to inhumane treatment, and failing to electronically record confessional statements.
She reminded law enforcement that under Section 7 of the ACJA, arresting a suspect’s family members or associates is illegal.
Justice Kekere-Ekun called for internal disciplinary measures within the Nigeria Police Force to prevent unlawful practices and urged the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) to implement mechanisms to monitor and curb police brutality.
She stressed that officers who violate the law must be held accountable.
The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) reaffirmed the constitutional obligation to treat suspects with dignity and emphasized compliance with Section 8(1) of the ACJA, which prohibits torture, inhumane, or degrading treatment.
She further identified poor investigative processes, inadequate case preparation, and delays in prosecution as major contributors to prolonged trials and prison congestion.
To address this, she urged law enforcement and related agencies to complete investigations before filing charges, ensuring that cases are not dismissed due to lack of evidence.
Justice Kekere-Ekun also advocated for improved coordination between the police, the Ministry of Justice, and the judiciary to enhance case prosecution
and strengthen the justice system.
(www.naija247news.com)
