From: Felix Ikem, Nsukka
Former Chairman, Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), Nsukka branch, Mr. Gerald Eze, has said that the new Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Chief Justice Walter Onnoghen, would restore the dignity of judiciary as he (Onnoghen) is a strong believer in the rule of law.
Eze told newsmen, in Nsukka, on Wednesday that, the CJN having spent not less than twenty years in Supreme Court would bring his many years of experience to bear to ensure that rule of law remain the hallmark of judiciary.
“The new CJN is among judges in the country that believes in rule of law and fundamental human right of citizens.
“As one who has spent not less than twenty years in Supreme court he will bring his experience to bear to ensure that he restores the dignity of judiciary system in the country,
“His good track records and humility in judiciary have already endeared him to both the bar and the bench,” he said.
The former chairman said he had no doubt that Onnoghen would reposition and restore the confidence of Nigerians in the judiciary system,
” He is an apostle of justice and will not hesitate to sanction any judiciary officer found wanting no matter whose Ox is gored.
“People in judiciary know that the new CJN has zero tolerance to corruption and injustice so everybody will sit-up in order to escape from his sledge hammer.
“Onnoghen’s administration will ensure improve welfare of judiciary workers since he believes that hard work must be rewarded,” he said.
He urged the stake-holders, judiciary staff and Nigerians in general to give the new CJN the necessary support and cooperation to enable him take the country judiciary system to the next level.
“I know CJN has already gotten the support of lawyers in the country as NBA was in the forefront of agitation for his appointment and swearing-in and I know the association will sustain the support.
“I urge Nigerians in Nigeria and in Diaspora to give him their maximum support so that rule of law and justice will take its pride of place in the country since judiciary is the last hope of a common man,” he said