CJN Laments Attack On Judicial Officers Over Corruption

The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN),
Justice Mahmud Mohammed

The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Mahmud Mohammed, has lamented attacks on judicial officers in corruption cases.

He further noted that judicial officers are punished for corruption most times, while the major beneficiaries walk free.

The CJN made the complaint on Wednesday, while speaking at the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Anti-Corruption Session on Fight Against Corruption in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital.

Justice Mohammed, who was represented by a Supreme Court Judge, Justice John Fabiyi, pointed out that between 2009 and 2014, over 64 judges of superior courts had been disciplined.

Still at the session on anti-corruption, lawyers came together to proffer ideas and solutions that would help the fight against corruption.

Among several issues, the NBA President, Augustine Alegeh (SAN), pointed out the harmonisation of the activities of the anti-corruption agencies which was grossly addressed.

However, Justice Fabiyi noted on behalf of the CJN, that the suggestions must include how major beneficiaries of corrupt acts are punished and not just judicial officers.

The lawyers were advocating a re-strategy of the processes for fighting corruption in the country, insisting on commitment from all Nigerians if the war must be won.

In the meantime, President Muhammadu Buhari had stated his determination to fight corruption as he kick starts his administration.

Nevertheless, he is alleged to be confronted by a public service that was embedded in corruption, a practice that many believed had stunted the growth of the nation.