Adjudication Is Not A Pedestrian Affair, Chief Judge Warns Lawyers
The Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, has urged lawyers and the public to cease attacks on judges, emphasising that legal adjudication is a specialised and serious endeavour, not a “pedestrian affair.”
He issued this warning during the ceremonial commencement of the Federal High Court’s 2024/2025 legal year in Abuja on Monday.
Justice Tsoho highlighted the dangers posed by the growing trend of criticising judges, warning that such actions threaten not only the judiciary but also the rule of law. He called on dissatisfied litigants to pursue appeals through higher courts rather than launching public attacks on judges who are constitutionally empowered to deliver judgments.
Justice Tsoho expressed concern over the intensified scrutiny faced by Federal High Court judges due to the court’s expansive jurisdiction. He lamented that criticism of judicial decisions is often a tactic employed by “failed lawyers” seeking media attention.
“The attacks on judges have become a troubling trend, often used as a means to gain fame. Many do not understand that the field of law and adjudication is far from a casual endeavour,” Tsoho stated.
Tsoho reminded the legal community that courts are established by the Nigerian Constitution, which grants them judicial powers under Section 6. Judges of superior courts, he emphasised, are appointed in accordance with constitutional provisions and are duty-bound to dispense justice fairly and in line with the law.
He further urged critics to respect the legal process and refrain from undermining judicial authority through public disparagement, reiterating that the proper avenue for addressing grievances is through the appellate courts.
Justice Tsoho concluded by using the rare opportunity of the annual legal year ceremony to condemn the ongoing attacks on judges. He underscored the importance of safeguarding the judiciary’s independence and integrity, which are fundamental to the survival of the rule of law in Nigeria.
