As the Nigerian judiciary begins a new legal year, a retired Justice of the Federal High Court, Justice Taiwo Taiwo, has advised the judiciary to remain firm and fearless in justice delivery.
Taiwo, who recently retired, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that a fearless judiciary would remain the key to effective justice administration.
NAN reports that the Lagos Judiciary on Monday began activities marking the commencement of the 2022/2023 Legal Year.
Taiwo told NAN that judges must seek to abide by the rule of law and their oath of office.
“I must first thank God for his faithfulness in enabling me do my best in serving my fatherland and in line with the rule of law.
“My advice for the judiciary, therefore, is that we must continue on this mandate fearlessly without minding whose ox is gored,” he said.
According to him, the judiciary remains the last hope of the common man.
Taiwo also called for a review of the modalities for appointment of judges.
“I am absolutely of the view that appointment of judges must be based strictly on merit.
“Such appointments must not be on the basis of who you know or where you come from. It should be based solely on merit,” he said.
Taiwo added that there should be no reason for any person to lobby his or her way to the bench since the task therein was that of service and adherence to the rule of law.
NAN reports that a valedictory court session was held in his honour of Taiwo on Sept. 22.
He was appointed to the bench in 2015.
