VP Shettima Urges Judiciary to Remain Steadfast in the Face of Blackmail

Vice President Kashim Shettima has urged the judiciary to remain unwavering in its commitment to justice, despite attempts at blackmailing it.

Speaking at the maiden Body of Benchers Annual Lecture in Abuja on Wednesday, Shettima pointed out the crucial role of the judiciary in upholding the rule of law and ensuring accountability in the country.

“Laws are not mere technicalities; they are the scaffolding of civilisation. Without laws, there is no order. Without order, there is no society,” Shettima said.

He cautioned judges and legal practitioners against yielding to the temptation of tinkering with the law to serve selfish interests, stressing that justice must be served without fear or favour.

Shettima commended the judiciary for living up to its duty, particularly in upholding the mandate of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu despite political blackmail.

He reassured the judiciary of President Tinubu’s commitment to maintaining cordiality among the three arms of government.

The vice president also applauded the Body of Benchers for launching its Law Report, which he described as a reflection of the collective commitment to legal scholarship and the preservation of precedent.

He urged all legal practitioners to remain true to the ideals of honesty and fairness, adding that “the legacy we build today will outlive our titles, our offices, and even our ambitions.”

In her remarks, the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, also commended the Body of Benchers for its foresight and dedication to ethical practice within the legal profession.

She said: “The forum is not only a testament to the progressive evolution of the body but a much-needed platform for intellectual engagement for practical and introspective reflection on the role of the body of benchers within the legal profession.

“It is gratifying to note that this annual event was conceived to serve multiple purposes including illuminating the workings of the body of benchers both nationally and internationally to foster greater understanding of its critical role in legal practice and professional discipline.”

Former Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Fashola (SAN), pointed out the significance of character formation and self-discipline in maintaining dignity in the legal profession.