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The Center for Reform and Public Advocacy, a public interest group, has called on the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) to sanction lawyers allegedly leading the incessant attacks on Nigeria’s judiciary.
The Group’s Head of Legal Affairs, Mr. Kalu Kalu Agu, disclosed this on Friday, October 4, 2024, at a global press conference attended by Nairametrics.
The group maintained that continued attacks on the Nigerian judiciary by aggrieved individuals over court decisions are unhealthy for the judiciary.
NBA advises on sanctions
Mr Agu said there was no need for reports in which the lawyer allegedly harshly criticized the judge and attacked his character after losing the case in court.
Agu called on the Nigerian Bar Association to rise to the occasion and “sanction negligent lawyers who, after losing a case in court, attack judges for ego-mongering.”
He emphasized that it is the NBA’s duty to protect the bench from unfounded criticism, as judges cannot respond to or defend themselves against such criticism. They must remain impartial and silent even in the face of unjust attacks.
“The Nigerian Bar Association requires its members to protect the integrity of the judiciary, promote public confidence in the judicial system and educate clients and the public about the judicial process.
“If the Nigerian Bar Association fails to protect the courts, the incessant attacks on judges by lawyers will tarnish the reputation of the legal profession, undermine its credibility, undermine public confidence in the judicial system and undermine the judiciary. Probably.
“The Nigerian Bar Association must come together to support judges in their pursuit of justice and promote a culture of respect for the judiciary.
“We therefore call on the Advocates Disciplinary Commission to take action against lawyers who indulge in the harmful act of attacking judges in Nigeria,” Agu said.
Mr. Agu explained that all lawyers must demonstrate respect for the judiciary, integrity in the practice of law, and a commitment to justice, which will strengthen the legal profession, foster a positive reputation, and strengthen the legal profession. For all that added that the rule of will be maintained and a fair judicial system will be ensured.
The group also recommended appropriate channels for lawyers to report corruption allegations against judges.
The group said appeals and petitions to the National Judicial Council are the two main legal methods of reporting corruption allegations against judges.
“We encourage lawyers and litigants to air their grievances through established channels.Apart from exercising their constitutional right of appeal, we encourage lawyers and litigants to air their grievances regarding judicial misconduct, allegations of bias, corruption, etc. “You can also petition the National Judicial Council against the judge,” he said.
He maintained that it is the job of the National Judicial Council to investigate and confirm the veracity of allegations against judicial officials, and not that of social media.
Further information
The advocacy comes days after the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Motommori Kekere Ekun, called on stakeholders in the judicial field to work harder to improve public perception of the Nigerian judiciary.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the legal year when the Supreme Court opens on September 30, 2024, Mr. Kekeleyekun said that the attitude of some individuals in the judiciary has at times been less than helpful and that is why the current legal system in the country He emphasized that this is a contributing factor to the lack of image.
She made it clear that there would be consequences for future indiscretions that could bring the judiciary into disrepute.
She advised lawyers to abide by the rules and ethics that guide the practice of the legal profession.
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