Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II and other prominent Nigerians yesterday stressed the need to uphold ethics, morality and the rule of law for sustenance of peace and harmony in the country.
They spoke at a public discourse on ethics, morality and the law in Lagos organised by the Movement for Islamic Culture Awareness (MICA) to mark the elevation of Hon. Justice Habeeb Abiru to the Supreme Court of Nigeria.
Justice Kekere-Ekun said ethics, morality and the law serve as the basis and preparing force for human conduct, especially as it relates to both intrapersonal and interpersonal relationships.
She said, “The discourse is premised on the belief that good morals and ethical conduct are most effectively sustained with the support of the law and the judicial system. “Just as the law itself evolved from the collective desire to uphold moral and ethical standards, it has become essential a structuring society that aligns with higher values in accordance with the divine commandments”
The chief Justice further pointed out that the law itself has roots in society’s collective desire to uphold moral and ethical standards, which shape and reinforce societal values.
“The interplay of these concepts—ethics, morality, and the law—not only shaped our legal system but continues to reinforce societal norms and expectations,” she said.
Muhammadu Sanusi II advocated for the judiciary’s independence, stressing that when the judiciary and law enforcement stand up for justice, “the purpose of revolution is sustained,” but when they do not, “it is defeated.”
The emir warned against the political co-option of civil society, especially law enforcement and the judiciary, stating, “The first thing political society tries to do is co-opt civil society, and the key civil society elements it co-opts are the police and the judiciary.”
He further emphasised the need for Nigerians to defend the integrity of the judiciary and law enforcement, saying, “Once they become depoliticized, we begin to see a major improvement in our belief and our faith in the rule of law.’’
Also speaking, a former Lagos State governor, Babatunde Fashola, praised the role of law in human society, calling it “the greatest tool humans have ever invented.”
He said the rule of law must evolve with society, as each reform brings forth the need for laws that ensure justice and reflect diverse societal values.
Another speaker at the event, Prof. Konyin Ajayi, urged the judiciary to uphold ethics and morality consistently in its decisions.
Dr Bashir Umar stressed that judges must uphold the integrity and moral values “without fear or favour” in the dispensation of justice.
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