The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has raised the alarm over the alarming decline in ethical standards within the legal profession, warning that without urgent intervention, the integrity of Nigeria’s judiciary could be at risk.
Speaking at the public presentation of the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC) report in Abuja, Kekere-Ekun did not mince words in her call for a renewed commitment to discipline and professional responsibility. She underscored the Body of Benchers’ pivotal role in safeguarding the legal profession's credibility, commending its unwavering efforts in enforcing discipline through the LPDC.
In a pointed remark, the CJN hailed the introduction of the Body of Benchers annual lecture, describing it as a critical forum for tackling the profession’s ethical challenges. She insisted that such initiatives must continue, emphasizing their role in shaping the future of legal practice in Nigeria and reinforcing public confidence in the judiciary.
As concerns mount over misconduct within the legal fraternity, Kekere-Ekun’s call to action serves as a stark reminder that the survival of the profession hinges on strict adherence to ethics, discipline, and accountability.