CJN laments political interference in judges’ appointments

The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Walter Onnoghen, has decried the falling standard at the Bar, saying there cannot be a strong bench without a strong Bar, since judges are appointed from among lawyers.

The CJN equally lamented the undue interference of politicians in the process of judges’ appointment. Onnoghen, represented by Olabode Rhodes-Vivour, Justice of the Supreme Court, also called for the study of law in the university to be made a second degree in view of the low standard of education in Nigeria.

Speaking on the theme, “Judicial Standards, Integrity, Respect and Public Perception: A Comparative Analysis From Independence In 1960 Into The Present Millennium,” Onnoghen said lawyers who wanted to be appointed into the bench, in addition to 10 years post call requirement, should also be mandated to have post graduate diploma.

These, according to the CJN, would go a long way in advancing the frontiers of justice delivery in the country.

On the appointment of judges, the CJN said the current system is such that the governor of a state might not allow the names of persons nominated for judicial appointment to be sent to the National Judicial Council for scrutiny if the names of the governor’s candidates were not included on the list.

In her remarks, Lagos State Chief Judge Opeyemi Oken said the topic was intended to be thought provoking and to prompt stakeholders in the administration of justice sector to critically assess judicial performance over the years.

The event was chaired by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo (SAN), represented by his Senior Special Adviser on Financial Crimes, Abiodun Aikumo.

In attendance were Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, his deputy Dr. Idiat Adebule, the Administrator of the National Judicial Institute, Justice Rosaline Bozimo, Attorney General of Lagos State, Mr. Adeniji Kazeem, judges, magistrates, Senior Advocates of Nigeria and other lawyers.