Nigerian Chief Justice Kekere-Ekun has come under heavy criticisms for attending a dinner party hosted by Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, in her honour.
TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports that Governor Sanwo-Olu on Sunday night via the microblogging platform, X formerly Twitter posted pictures from the event, saying, “During a dinner honoring Justice Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun, GCON, Chief Justice of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, we celebrated her significant contributions as a proud daughter of Lagos and a pioneering figure in Nigeria’s judiciary.
“As the second woman ever to hold the position of Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kekere-Ekun embodies a source of pride for every Lagosian. Her exemplary leadership serves as a guiding light for women and young girls across Nigeria, demonstrating that excellence transcends gender.
“We take great pride in our city’s ability to nurture some of the most outstanding legal talents, both among practitioners and judges.
“Under the progressive leadership of past governors, Lagos has pioneered significant judicial reforms that have established a benchmark for the entire country.
“We honor Justice Kekere-Ekun, her extraordinary journey, and the promising future she is shaping for both our judiciary and our nation.”
The post have since sparked a broader debate about the independence of the judiciary and the potential for undue influence by politicians.
In many legal systems, judges are expected to maintain a distance from political figures to avoid any appearance of bias or favoritism. Attending a social event hosted by a political figure, such as a governor, can raise questions about the independence of the judiciary.
Below are some of the reactions:
@patreeq50 wrote: “This is where Corruption starts from. A politian celebrating a judge. Bye to objectivity in court room.”
@wilsonakubobi wrote: “Never knew a day would come when judges(who ought to embody ruthless conservatism) attend dinner parties organized by controversial political characters.”
Lord Bàbájídé X wrote: “In the days of yore , Judges are only heard through there impartial & landmark judgements, not to be seen and that’s why one of the reason they’re called “My Lord”. However, today Nigeria Judges party, pepper-souping, isiewulizing & Hennessying with people in power!”
Olando Raba wrote: “In the back pocket my guy. I love the APC Tinubu game. When he’s done with Nigeria una go understand.”
@Namdi95748363 wrote: “Judges should not be bribed . Rule of law is the bedrock of a just and thriving society.”
Odogwu Pato wrote: “Very soon The Judiciary, Executive and Legislathieves will start sewing APC Ashoebi so that we know they are all three-in-one now. Separation of powers in the mud.”