Justice Ibrahim Saulawa warns judges against political ‘Greek gifts’

Retiring Supreme Court Justice Ibrahim Musa Saulawa has issued a warning to judicial officers regarding the acceptance of ‘Greek gifts’ from politicians and litigants. Speaking at a valedictory session in Abuja following his mandatory retirement at age 70, Saulawa emphasized the need for judges to maintain neutrality, integrity, and contentment to protect the judiciary’s impartiality.

Saulawa specifically criticized the practice of politicians sending items such as cows or rams to judges, describing the behavior as demeaning and frustrating. He recounted an instance where he rejected a brand-new Peugeot motor vehicle from an influential individual who subsequently attempted to influence him through various proxies. He called on the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, to address these practices.

Chief Justice Kekere-Ekun congratulated Saulawa on his contributions to the judiciary, noting his progression from the High Court in Katsina to the Supreme Court. A representative of the Body of Senior Advocates of Nigeria (BoSAN) also praised Saulawa for serving the country with integrity.