The judiciary and the media are key pillars of democracy, the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has said.

Ms Kekere-Ekun made this statement in her address at the 2024 National Conference of the National Association of Judiciary Correspondents (NAJUC).

The CJN was represented by Abdulaziz Olumo, the secretary of the National Judicial Institute (NJI).

”The judiciary and the media occupy unique and complementary roles in any democratic society.

”The judiciary serves as the guardian of justice, equity, and the rule of law; the media acts as the conscience of society, disseminating information, shaping public opinion, and ensuring accountability.

”Together, these institutions provide checks and balances that strengthen the fabric of democracy,” she said.

Quoting Felix Frankfurter, a former U.S. Supreme Court Justice, she said, “Free press is not to be preferred to an independent judiciary, nor an independent judiciary to a free press. Neither has primacy over the other; both are indispensable to a free society.”

The CJN said this dynamic interdependence between the judiciary and the media presents opportunities and challenges alike.

”The media is entrusted with the responsibility of informing the public about judicial activities; the judiciary relies on accurate and ethical reportage to enhance public confidence in its work.

”However, the inherent power of the media to influence public opinion requires careful management, especially when its focus turns to judicial proceedings.

”The question posed by Robert J. Cordy, a former Associate Justice of the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court, is pertinent here: “What happens when the free press turns its sights on the courts—scrutinising, sensationalising, and exposing the frailties of the judiciary while questioning its ethical standards and performance?”

“The media’s capacity to shape narratives and perceptions is undeniable,” she said.

Quoting Jim Morrison, she said, “Whoever controls the media controls the mind.”

According to her, this underscores the immense responsibility placed on journalists to report truthfully, fairly, and objectively.

”Unfortunately, the commercialisation of news and external influences have led to the rise of sensationalism—a practice that distorts facts, erodes trust, and undermines the very essence of journalism.

”Sensationalised headlines, such as the infamous 2016 headline “We raided the houses of ‘corrupt, unholy’ judges, says SSS,” can paint a skewed picture of the judiciary and its officers. Such reporting, often devoid of context, compromises the integrity of the justice system and misleads the public.

”Closely tied to this is the issue of “trial by media,” where premature and often biased media narratives prejudge cases and infringe on the constitutional rights of individuals,” she said.

She added that, as Mahatma Gandhi rightly observed, “The sole aim of journalism should be service.” It is imperative for media practitioners to remain steadfast in their commitment to truth and objectivity.

To this end, she advised the National Association of Judiciary Correspondents to take proactive steps to regulate the activities of its members.

”This is not merely about enforcing rules but about fostering professionalism and safeguarding the credibility of the media.

”The judiciary and the media must work as partners in progress.

”To bridge the gap between these institutions, there is a pressing need for constructive engagement and mutual understanding.

”Courts can provide the media with guidelines on judicial processes, courtroom decorum, and the nuances of court proceedings.

She noted that globally, courts have adopted initiatives to support the media’s role in reporting judicial matters.

For instance, she said the Supreme Court of Dakota’s media guide outlines protocols for courtroom reporting, while the UK‘s Media Guidance document provides clarity on access and etiquette for journalists.

”These examples demonstrate how structured collaboration can enhance the quality of judicial reportage.

”In Nigeria, we can take a cue from these models by developing a comprehensive media guide tailored to our judicial landscape.

”This initiative, which would involve inputs from NAJUC and judicial stakeholders, would not only enhance media access to courtrooms but also ensure that judicial activities are accurately and responsibly reported,” she said.

She advocated that judiciary correspondents must make deliberate efforts to familiarise themselves with the rules and procedures of the courts.

She added that understanding these frameworks will enable journalists to navigate the complexities of judicial proceedings effectively and responsibly.

”Training programmes such as this conference play a crucial role in equipping judiciary correspondents with the knowledge and skills needed to report judicial matters accurately.

”The theme of this year’s conference, “The Role of Courts in Enforcement of Judgements,” is both timely and significant, as it addresses an aspect of judicial work that is critical to upholding the rule of law and ensuring justice.

”I commend NAJUC for its commitment to promoting accountability and transparency through its engagements with the judiciary.

”As I conclude, I must emphasise the importance of credible journalism in strengthening public trust in the judiciary,” she said.

She urged judiciary correspondents to prioritise the pursuit of truth and objectivity, resist undue influences, and remain steadfast in their commitment to ethical standards.

She commended the leadership of NAJUC, under the chairmanship of Kayode Lawal, for its efforts in promoting professionalism among judiciary correspondents. 

(NAN)