The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has urged security agencies to uphold court orders and respect human rights.
Expressing concern over the increasing disregard for judicial rulings by some law enforcement agencies, she warned that such actions undermine the justice system and erode public confidence.
According to a statement on Sunday by her Senior Special Assistant on Media, Tobi Soniyi, the CJN made this appeal when the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and his team paid her a courtesy visit in Abuja.
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Justice Kekere-Ekun stressed that adherence to the rule of law requires full compliance with court decisions, warning that disobedience to judicial orders weakens trust in both law enforcement and the judiciary.
She urged the IGP to issue directives ensuring that court rulings are respected and promptly executed. She also raised concerns over threats to judges, court officials, and litigants, particularly in politically sensitive cases, calling for greater protection of judicial officers from intimidation.
The CJN recommended increased police presence at court premises in areas prone to violence, strict enforcement of constitutional safeguards such as the right to legal representation, and better protection for vulnerable groups, including women, children, and persons with disabilities.
She also emphasized compliance with the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015, highlighting provisions against unlawful arrests, mistreatment of suspects, and the mandatory electronic recording of confessional statements.
Justice Kekere-Ekun reminded the police that Section 7 of the ACJA prohibits arresting family members or associates in place of a suspect.
She called for internal disciplinary measures to curb unlawful practices within the Nigeria Police Force and mechanisms to prevent police brutality, ensuring officers who violate the law are held accountable.
She further noted that poor investigative processes, inadequate case preparation, and delays in prosecution contribute to prolonged trials and prison congestion.
She advised law enforcement agencies to conclude investigations before filing charges to prevent cases from being dismissed due to lack of evidence.
The CJN called for better coordination between the police, the Ministry of Justice, and the judiciary to ensure efficient prosecution of cases, ultimately strengthening the nation’s justice system.
