My Esteemed Lords,
It is with utmost respect and a deep sense of responsibility that I extend my sincerest congratulations to each of you on your confirmation as Justices of the Supreme Court of Nigeria by the Nigeria Senate. This confirmation, which transpired without much ado, serves as a testament to your exceptional expertise, unwavering integrity, and profound commitment to upholding justice in our beloved nation. The esteemed positions to which you have been appointed carry immense responsibility and hold the potential to shape the course of justice in our great land.
In light of this significant chapter in your illustrious legal careers, I humbly offer these charges with the utmost reverence:
1. Uphold the Constitution: As Justices of the Supreme Court, your paramount duty is to uphold the Constitution of Nigeria. It is imperative that every decision you make aligns meticulously with the principles and provisions enshrined within our Constitution. Let justice, fairness, and equality be the guiding tenets that inform your judgments.
2. Impartiality and Independence: As custodians of justice, it is imperative that you maintain unwavering impartiality and independence throughout your decision-making process. Liberating yourselves from any external influences or pressures, remain steadfast in rendering judgments solely based on the merits of each case, ensuring justice is served without fear or favor.
3. Preserve the Rule of Law: The Supreme Court plays a pivotal role in upholding the sanctity of the rule of law. Your decisions should fortify the significance of adhering to legal principles and the supremacy of the law. Consistency, predictability, and transparency in your judgments will contribute to a robust and reliable legal system.
4. Respect Precedents: The decisions of the Supreme Court set the precedents that guide lower courts and the legal profession as a whole. Uphold the inherent value of stare decisis and the importance of consistent interpretation and application of the law. When appropriate, remain open to reinterpreting or revisiting precedents to ensure their continued relevance and alignment with the evolving needs of society.
5. Continual Learning and Professional Growth: The realm of law is an ever-evolving domain, constantly adapting to societal changes. Embrace a resolute commitment to continual learning and professional growth. Stay attuned to domestic and international legal developments, enriching your understanding and enabling well-informed judgments.
6. Collegiality and Collaboration: The Supreme Court is an institution characterized by collegiality, wherein collaborative decision-making plays a pivotal role. Engage in respectful and open discussions with your esteemed colleagues, cherishing the vast array of perspectives and insights. Through constructive dialogue, you shall arrive at well-considered decisions that reflect the collective wisdom of the Court.
7. Timeliness and Efficiency: Recognize the profound significance of expeditious justice delivery. Strive for efficient case management, ensuring that justice is not unduly delayed. Swift resolutions shall instill public confidence and reinforce the judiciary’s indispensable role as a pillar of our democratic society.
8. Public Confidence and Transparency: Uphold the highest ethical standards, maintaining unwavering transparency in all your actions. Engage with the public, legal professionals, and other stakeholders to foster understanding and trust in the judiciary. Be accessible, communicate your judgments effectively, and provide reasoned explanations for your decisions.
9. Judicial Reform and Innovation: Embrace opportunities for judicial reform and innovation. Ponder ways to enhance access to justice, streamline court processes, and harness technology to improve efficiency. Endeavor to address systemic challenges, promoting a justice system that serves all Nigerians equitably.
10. Humility and Service: Always bear in mind that the power entrusted to you entails a sacred duty to serve the Nigerian people. Approach your esteemed roles with humility, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to justice. Remain cognizant of the profound impact your decisions have on individuals, communities, and the nation as a whole.
I hold unwavering faith in your abilities to uphold the principles of justice and contribute to the growth and development of our esteemed legal system. May you discharge your responsibilities with unyielding integrity, wisdom, and fairness, leaving an indelible positive impact on the judicial landscape of Nigeria.
Wishing you the utmost success in your tenure as Justices of the Supreme Court of Nigeria.
Yours sincerely,
Dr. Olukayode Ajulo, OON, SAN, FCIArb. UK
