The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, delivered a compelling message on Wednesday, cautioning the Federal High Court judges against complacency in their roles. Speaking at the 39th Annual FHC Judges’ Conference and the FHC’s 50th Anniversary Lectures in Abuja, Justice Ariwoola emphasized the importance of diligence and the pursuit of excellence in dispensing justice.
“Anyone that is lucky to be appointed to this court, without mincing words, is indeed very lucky and should not take that for granted,” he expressed, urging the judges to continuously strive for improvement in their rulings and judgments.
The CJN enjoined the judges to be diligent and dedicated in their delivery of justice, advising them to draft their judgments in a manner that would compel affirmation by the appellate court. “Do not assume that what the gentlemen at the appellate court are doing. No, let that (appellate) court affirm your decisions. Always write your judgments so that the appellate court will have no choice but to uphold your decisions. Don’t leave any loopholes,” he emphasized.
Emphasizing the solitary nature of their roles, the CJN encouraged the judges to go the extra mile in every aspect of their work. He reassured them that seeking consultations or taking breaks to consider judgments in-depth is not a sign of weakness but a testament to their dedication to delivering sound rulings.
Justice Ariwoola also shed light on the nature of appeals, reassuring the judges that an appeal is an inherent right, and the appellate court serves as the platform to address such appeals.
In his address, the CJN highlighted the monumental significance of the Federal High Court, stressing that it is the largest and most influential court in Nigeria, with continuously expanding jurisdiction, including original jurisdiction on electoral matters.
Furthermore, the Chief Judge of FHC, Justice John Tsoho, emphasized the importance of the annual conference, stating that it provides a platform for judges to reflect on past activities and proffer solutions to identified challenges. He expressed the court’s commitment to enhancing justice delivery in the country.
The address exuded a profound message of dedication, excellence, and continual improvement, as the CJN and the Chief Judge urged the judges to uphold the highest standards of justice delivery, further fortifying the pivotal role of the Federal High Court in Nigeria’s judicial system.
