The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Olukayode Ariwoola, has urged the National Assembly to amend laws, advocating for the termination of most appeals at intermediary courts. This move aims to alleviate the burden on the Supreme Court.
According to Ariwoola, from September last year to July this year, the Supreme Court handled a total of 1,271 cases, including motions and appeals. Of these, 388 were political appeals, 215 criminal appeals, and 464 civil appeals.
Speaking during a special session marking the beginning of the 2023/2024 legal year in Abuja, Ariwoola disclosed that the Supreme Court delivered 251 judgments during the same period. These included 125 political appeals, 81 civil appeals, and 45 criminal appeals.
Despite challenges such as a reduced number of justices, Ariwoola described the year’s “scorecard” as impressive. He emphasized the court’s determination to enhance the judiciary, ensuring a system that citizens can take pride in.
Ariwoola cautioned against any perception of bias or corruption, emphasizing that doubts cast on the integrity of the judicial system could contaminate the river of justice. He confirmed the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) on 58 legal practitioners, charging them to uphold justice, equity, and fairness.
The Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), reminded new SANs of the responsibility attached to the privilege. Fagbemi highlighted the potential loss of the rank in the event of unprofessional conduct, emphasizing the need to maintain the standards and qualities that warranted the initial recognition.
