Appointment of Judges: Why We Publish Names of Candidates – CJN!

Reported by Marian Opeyemi Fasesan | Sele Media Africa

The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has explained that the publication of names of judicial candidates by the National Judicial Council (NJC) is a deliberate effort to ensure transparency, accountability, and public input in the appointment of judges.

Reason for the Policy

• Justice Kekere-Ekun said the move allows members of the public to raise objections or provide credible information about any candidate’s integrity, competence, or background.
• She noted that publishing the list of nominees is now a mandatory pre-condition under her tenure to promote trust in the judiciary and prevent the emergence of unfit individuals on the bench.
• “It is important that people who are to adjudicate on others’ rights must themselves be above board,” she added during a judicial stakeholders’ forum.

Broader Implications

• The CJN stated that the NJC now encourages credible petitions or comments on any candidate before final recommendations are made.
• Legal experts and civil society groups have praised the policy for opening up the once opaque appointment process.
• Critics, however, caution that transparency must be balanced with protection against politically motivated or baseless petitions.

Citations:

1. Vanguard News: www.vanguardngr.com/2025/10/why-njc-publishes-names-of-judge-nominees-cjn-kekere-ekun
2. Premium Times: www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/2025/10/cjn-kekere-ekun-says-names-of-judicial-nominees-must-be-published-for-transparency
3. The Nation: thenationonlineng.net/cjn-defends-mandatory-publication-of-judge-nominees-by-njc

Marian Opeyemi Fasesan

Marian Opeyemi Fasesan is a dynamic journalist and editorial leader committed to excellence in news reporting and storytelling. As the Editor-in-Chief of Sele Media Africa, she ensures daily operations run smoothly while upholding the highest editorial standards. With a strong eye for detail and deep understanding of audience engagement, Marian coordinates content across platforms, guiding teams to produce compelling, timely, and credible news. Her leadership reflects the heart of Sele Media Africa’s mission—to inform, inspire, and elevate voices across the continent.