2027: ‘You will be monitored’ – CJN issues warning to election tribunal judges

Chief Justice of Nigeria, CJN, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has warned judges who will sit on the 2027 election petition tribunals to steer clear of politics.

Kekere-Ekun gave the warning on Wednesday at the flag-off of the 2026/2027 legal year of the National Industrial Court in Abuja.

She said judges of the Industrial Court may be drafted to election tribunals under the law guiding the 2027 polls and must show strict impartiality.

According to her, election cases come with huge political interest and public attention, so judges must watch their conduct, relationships and public appearances.

The CJN added that any judge on tribunal duty would be closely watched as Nigeria moves towards the 2027 general elections.

“You will be monitored. As we approach another electoral season, these responsibilities assume even greater importance. Some of Your Lordships may, in accordance with the applicable constitutional and legal framework, be called upon to serve as members of Election Petition Tribunals.

“In that capacity, Your Lordships will be called upon to decide politically sensitive disputes which attract considerable public attention,” she said.