Ebonyi Chief Judge, Justice Elvis Ngene, has decried corruption in Nigeria’s judiciary, warning it undermines fair hearing, access to justice, and public trust.
The Chief Judge of Ebonyi State, Justice Elvis Ngene, has warned that corruption remains a major threat to fair hearing and access to justice in Nigeria. He spoke on Friday during the opening of the 2025/2026 legal year at the High Court complex, Abakaliki.
Ngene said corruption manifests through bribery and manipulation, eroding public confidence and pushing citizens to resolve disputes outside the courts. “Public perception of corruption among judicial officers is a discouraging factor,” he said.
He urged judges to uphold integrity, stressing that “any act of misconduct undermines the credibility of the entire justice system.” Ngene commended the NJC for tackling unethical practices and praised Ebonyi’s judiciary for maintaining high standards.
He called for adequate funding, judicial autonomy, and stronger legal reforms to address underfunding and trial delays. Ngene also acknowledged Governor Francis Nwifuru’s support, describing Ebonyi’s judiciary as “an enviable model” in Nigeria.