Former Chief Justice Warns Court Staff: Ethical Lapses Could Land You in Jail

In a stern warning that resonated through Abuja’s judicial corridors, retired Justice Babatunde Adejumo, Administrator of Nigeria’s National Judicial Institute (NJI), delivered a powerful message to court support staff: unethical conduct could cost them their freedom.

The High Cost of Compromising Justice

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 2025 hybrid national workshop on court process management, the former President of the National Industrial Court didn’t mince words. “Why would anyone trade the sacred integrity of our judicial system for temporary material gain?” Justice Adejumo questioned, his voice carrying the weight of decades on the bench.

The week-long event, themed “Building a Stronger Judiciary through Effectiveness,” brought together registrars, bailiffs, court clerks, and administrative personnel from across Nigeria’s judicial system. For many attendees, this marked their first encounter with the NJI’s new administrator in his official capacity.

First Impressions That Last

Justice Adejumo emphasized the pivotal role support staff play in shaping public perception. “You create the first—and often lasting—impression of our justice system,” he noted. “Every interaction, every document handled, every procedure followed either builds or erodes public trust.”

The retired justice drew from painful historical examples where court staff faced severe consequences for ethical breaches. His warning carried particular gravity given Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to combat judicial corruption and improve court efficiency.

The Digital Transformation Imperative

Beyond ethical conduct, Justice Adejumo stressed the urgent need for technological adaptation. “Digital transformation isn’t coming—it’s already here,” he declared, outlining how electronic filing systems, virtual courtrooms, and digital record-keeping are revolutionizing judicial administration.

The workshop curriculum reflected these priorities, featuring sessions on:

• Managing complex court calendars and hearing schedules
• Navigating remote hearings and virtual courtroom protocols
• Mastering e-filing systems and digital record-keeping
• Understanding the Code of Conduct for Federal Court Employees

A Call to Professional Excellence

“More than ever,” Justice Adejumo emphasized, “modern justice demands innovation married with unwavering ethics.” He challenged participants to become custodians of both sensitive information and public trust, highlighting confidentiality as a non-negotiable professional standard.

The administrator’s message carried particular resonance given Nigeria’s ongoing judicial reforms. As courts nationwide implement technology-driven solutions to reduce case backlogs and improve transparency, support staff find themselves on the frontlines of this transformation.

Workshop as Turning Point

Justice Adejumo framed the workshop as a critical opportunity for professional growth. “Engage fully,” he urged both physical and virtual attendees. “Question actively. Exchange ideas freely. The knowledge shared here could redefine your career—and our judiciary’s future.”

His closing remarks returned to the ethical imperative: “When you leave here, remember—the robe you wear or the desk you sit at carries the weight of justice itself. Honor that privilege, or face the consequences.”

The stark warning served as both admonition and motivation for court personnel navigating Nigeria’s evolving legal landscape, where technology and tradition increasingly intersect under the watchful eye of public scrutiny.

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