Nigeria's Chief Justice Warns Against Political Pressure in 2027 Election Petition Tribunals

Chief Justice of Nigeria Kudirat Kekere-Ekun swore in members of the Election Petition Tribunals on Monday ahead of the 2027 general elections. She delivered the warning during a capacity-building workshop organised by the Court of Appeal in Abuja.

She warned judicial officers, politicians, lawyers, public officials and social media users against turning the courtroom into an extension of the political arena. She said misinformation, intimidation and attempts to prejudice pending proceedings have no place in a society governed by the rule of law.

“Misinformation, intimidation and attempts to prejudice pending proceedings have no place in a society governed by the rule of law.”

The Chief Justice cautioned that unverified allegations, selective accounts of court proceedings and online campaigns directed at judicial officers can distort public understanding. She added that public opinion and a candidate's popularity cannot be substituted for legal proof.

She also warned judges handling election petitions against compromising fair hearing in their bid to deliver speedy justice. She condemned the filing of multiple actions or appeals on the same subject matter and the pursuit of conflicting orders from courts of coordinate jurisdiction.

The President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, disclosed that 375 judicial officers have been nominated to serve on the tribunals. Of these, 138 are returning members with previous tribunal experience, while 237 are newly nominated.

She urged tribunal members to resist every attempt at improper influence, whether through political pressure or inducement. The Chief Justice also warned lawyers against seeking tactical advantage through ex parte applications.