Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Mudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun, has come under fire for openly socialising with Lagos State governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
After attending a dinner party hosted by Lagos State Governor in her honour, her critics said she should not have accepted the gesture, arguing it has the potential of making a reasonable man in society come to the conclusion that she would be biased any time she sits or appoints justices to sit on Lagos State cases.
The governor, on Sunday night via the microblogging platform, X formerly Twitter, posted pictures from the event, saying, “During a dinner honouring Justice Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun, GCON, Chief Justice of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, we celebrated her significant contributions as a proud daughter of Lagos and a pioneering figure in Nigeria’s judiciary.
“As the second woman ever to hold the position of Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kekere-Ekun embodies a source of pride for every Lagosian. Her exemplary leadership serves as a guiding light for women and young girls across Nigeria, demonstrating that excellence transcends gender.
“We take great pride in our city’s ability to nurture some of the most outstanding legal talents, both among practitioners and judges.
“Under the progressive leadership of past governors, Lagos has pioneered significant judicial reforms that have established a benchmark for the entire country.
“We honour Justice Kekere-Ekun, her extraordinary journey, and the promising future she is shaping for both our judiciary and our nation.”
In swift ripostes, Nigerians descended on Sanwo-Olu for putting the CJN in a compromising situation.
Below are some of the reactions:
@patreeq50 wrote: “This is where corruption starts from. A politian celebrating a judge. Bye to objectivity in the courtroom.”
@wilsonakubobi wrote: “Never knew a day would come when judges(who ought to embody ruthless conservatism) attend dinner parties organized by controversial political characters.”
Lord Bàbájídé X wrote: “In the days of yore , Judges are only heard through there impartial & landmark judgements, not to be seen and that’s why one of the reason they’re called “My Lord”. However, today, Nigeria Judges party, pepper-souping, isiewulizing & Hennessying with people in power!”
Olando Raba wrote: “In the back pocket my guy. I love the APC Tinubu game. When he’s done with Nigeria una go understand.”
@Namdi95748363 wrote: “Judges should not be bribed . Rule of law is the bedrock of a just and thriving society.”
Odogwu Pato wrote: “Very soon, the judiciary, executive, and Legislathieves will start sewing APC Ashoebi so that we know they are all three-in-one now. Separation of powers in the mud.”