Public Opinions Cannot Override or Supersede the Constitution of the Country – CJN
The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, yesterday, admonished judges in the country to predicate their judgment on the constitution, rather than public opinions.
He gave the charge shortly after ministering the oath of office on 23 newly appointed Judges of the Federal High Court.
While noting that several vitriolic attacks were regularly being heaped on the judiciary, Ariwoola maintained that, “it is crystal clear that public opinion, no matter how serious or weighty it might be, cannot override or supersede the Constitution of the country” which judges apply in deciding each case.
Notwithstanding, Ariwoola reminded judicial officers of the place of conscience in decision making, adding that the generality of the Nigerian masses look up to them for justice.
“By virtue of the oath you have just taken, you have, automatically, assumed new status and responsibilities in life. A new blank page in the book of life has just been opened for you; and as it is with public office, especially the Judiciary, you are completely opened to daily public scrutiny.
“The pen is right there in your hand to write whatever you desire to be the content of the new page that is now openly displayed in the public domain.
“Like I always say, even though judicial officers are not spirits or superhuman beings, so much impossible things are yet expected from them by the society,” the CJN stated.
Besides, Ariwoola said he sympathised with the new Judges over the landmines that were already lying on their paths in the course of adjudication, especially if their consciences are at variance with their conducts.
“The bench is neither for the indolent, the greedy nor those with dubious character, who can easily fall for a plate of porridge offered by desperate litigants.
“You must, at all times, rise above temptations and trials that might obstruct or even halt your rise to the pinnacle of your career. We are all humans, no doubt, but you display the humanism in you by doing those extraordinary things that people would ordinarily conclude that you cannot do”, he added.
