Judiciary experiencing trying times, says acting CJN

Ibrahim Muhammad, acting chief justice of Nigeria, says the judiciary is experiencing trying times.

Muhammad, who was sworn into office on Friday, said this while swearing in members of the election tribunal.

He asked judges to stand to protect and uphold the integrity of the judiciary.

“The judiciary is in trying times, you must stand to protect and uphold the integrity of this arm of government,” he said.

“I encourage you to uphold and enhance the honour and standing of the judiciary and I pray that the Almighty God will bestow upon you strength, good health and wisdom in the performance of your duties… I congratulate you on this appointment and I urge you to see this assignment as a call to greater service to your nation.”

That was his first official function since he took over from Walter Onnoghen who was removed over charges on false assets declaration.

Aside the acting CJN, Sidi Bage was the only supreme court judge who attended the ceremony.

It is unclear why other supreme court justices were absent at the event.

The appointment of Muhammad has sparked controversy within and outside the country. Many lawyers and human rights activists have accused President Muhammadu Buhari of not following due process.

The US, UK and EU have expressed concerns that the action of the president might affect the credibility of the elections.