Malami, who
was represented on the occasion by his Senior Special Assistant on White Collar
Crimes, Abiodun Aikomo, was quoted to have vowed that acts of judicial impunity
on the part of judges would not be tolerated by the President Muhamadu
Buhari-led administration.
He noted
that the Nigerian judiciary had been losing public trust and confidence as it
appeared as judges enjoyed total immunity from prosecution for alleged corrupt
practices.
The AGF
added, “As we may be aware, this administration promised Nigerians that it will
promptly address the challenges facing our nation in the three areas of
corruption, economy and security. Let no one be in doubt, the legitimate
expectation of Nigerians in this regard shall be met.
“In this
regard therefore, I am reiterating that the fight against corruption shall be
total and will not exclude judicial officers, who are found wanting. After all,
it is beyond doubt that a corrupt judge cannot meaningfully contribute to the
fight against corruption.”
Malami said
judges would be continually reminded of the judicial oath that they took, which
mandated them to deliver justice without fear or favour, affection or ill-will,
independently and impartially.
“In reality,
it cannot be over-emphasised that systemic corruption and impunity are
prevalent in Nigeria, and that they cut across all sectors of the society,
unfortunately, including the judiciary – an institution that is universally
believed to be the hope of the common man.
“Ideally,
the judiciary in a democratic state ought to be accountable less to public
opinion and more to public interest. It should discharge its constitutional
roles by being principled, independent and impartial,” he stated
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