The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, emphasized the judiciary’s commitment to supporting recommendations that would improve the reform agenda for justice administration in the country during a recent event in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. The workshop, focusing on addressing corruption in the judiciary and enhancing transparency and accountability, aimed to identify challenges and propose solutions. Justice Adamu Ajeoro, representing the CJN, highlighted the judiciary’s dedication to collaborating with stakeholders to implement reforms centered on expediting justice delivery and combating corruption.
Mr Olanrewaju Suraju, the chairman of the HEDA Resource Centre, expressed concerns about corrupt practices within the judiciary, citing statistics from the National Bureau of Statistics’ 2024 corruption survey report. The report revealed substantial bribes paid to judicial officers, raising alarms about the impact of corruption on the justice system and society at large.
Participants at the event, including representatives from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, emphasized the importance of developing recommendations that align with citizens’ experiences and perceptions to drive positive change. Prof Shehu Abdullahi acknowledged the collaborative efforts of organizations like HEDA, UNODC, and the Kano State Anti-Corruption Commission in combating corruption within the judiciary.