CJN, however, enlightened the public that frivolous attacks on judges attract commensurate punishments
By Kehinde Okeowo
Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun on Monday prescribed an antidote to frequent conflicting rulings by judges of courts of coordinate jurisdiction.
Specking specifically about the Court of Appeal where panels have delivered conflicting judgments on the same issue, the CJN advocated conferences by the justices.
According to her, judges holding conferences, exchanging opinions and ideas on matters that come before them is extremely essential, if they are to avoid giving conflicting verdicts.
She added that an appellate court comprises three judges because it is believed that “several heads are better than one”.
Kekere-Ekun said: ‘’The issue of conflicting decisions is one of great concern in our community at present time. And, one of the reasons that we have conflicting decisions is because many panels do not hold conferences to discuss all reserved judgments.
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“It is strongly recommended that conferences be held. I cannot overemphasise this point. We are an appellate court for a reason, and the reason is that several heads are better than one.
“So, holding conferences, exchanging opinions and ideas on matters that come before us is extremely essential.
“We have presiding justice here. And if it has not been your practice, I want to appeal to you that you start making it a practice. It is a very, very essential tool in the work that we do.”
Justice Kekere-Ekun went on to express displeasure over frivolous and unsubstantiated allegations against judges.
Although she advised judges to ‘’ignore distractions and attempts to compromise their independence,’’ she warned that those involved risked facing justice.
