Nigeria's Chief Justice warns judges on impartiality ahead of 2027 elections

Chief Justice of Nigeria Kudirat Kekere-Ekun has issued a warning to judges regarding the upcoming 2027 general elections. Speaking at the commencement of the 2026/2027 legal year for the National Industrial Court of Nigeria in Abuja, she noted that certain judges may be appointed to serve on election petition tribunals.

Kekere-Ekun emphasized that because election disputes are politically sensitive and attract intense public scrutiny, judges must demonstrate high levels of impartiality, restraint, and detachment. She cautioned that judicial conduct, public engagements, and associations must not create a perception of political alignment or predisposition.

Additionally, the Chief Justice advised lawyers against attempting to manipulate judicial processes for partisan purposes, stating that the appropriate legal forum for a case should be determined by law rather than the perceived likelihood of success before a specific judge.