The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun has told the police and other security agencies in the country that arresting family members or associates in place of a suspect is illegal.
Justice Kekere-Ekun stated this on Sunday when the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, and his team paid her a courtesy visit in Abuja.
The CJN highlighted specific legal safeguards under the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015, emphasizing the importance of respecting suspects’ rights. She reminded the police that under Section 7 of the ACJA, arresting family members or associates in place of a suspect is illegal.
She further urged the nation’s security agencies to fully comply with court orders and uphold the fundamental rights of citizens.
Her appeal comes amid growing concerns over the disregard of judicial decisions by some law enforcement bodies — a trend she warns could erode public trust in the nation’s justice system.
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Emphasizing the importance of the rule of law, she insisted that strict adherence to court judgments is non-negotiable, as defiance of legal orders weakens both law enforcement and the judiciary’s credibility.
“The rule of law demands that judicial decisions be respected and promptly implemented. Any form of disobedience undermines the very essence of justice and public confidence,” the CJN stated. She called on the IGP to issue clear directives to ensure that police officers comply with court orders without delay.
“Strict compliance with constitutional safeguards, including the rights to legal representation and prompt presentation before a court, is essential,” she said. She further called for internal disciplinary measures to curb unlawful police practices and ensure accountability for officers who violate legal protocols.
Addressing the issue of delayed justice, Justice Kekere-Ekun identified poor investigative processes and lack of case preparation as major contributors to prolonged trials and prison congestion. She urged law enforcement agencies to complete investigations thoroughly before filing charges to avoid cases being dismissed for lack of evidence.
The CJN also advocated stronger collaboration between the police, the Ministry of Justice, and the judiciary, emphasizing that seamless prosecution of cases is vital to strengthening Nigeria’s justice system.
