Once again, the highest court in the land has sent a strong message: don’t spread rumours and misinformation that attack the judges on its bench or the judiciary in general.
On Saturday, the highest court once again made it clear that it will not stand for the intentional spread of false information with the goal of damaging the reputation of judges and the entire judicial system.
The Supreme Court, seemingly in response to a story going around online that claimed one of its justices went to Benin City for a political case that had just been brought before the court, warned those who speak out about judicial matters to be careful, thoughtful, and responsible at all times.
The director of information and public relations of the supreme court, Dr. Festus Akande, voiced his anger with the circulation of misinformation about the justice in question on social media in a statement released on Saturday.
“An alarming and unfounded story is making the rounds on social media and other websites, claiming that a Supreme Court justice travelled to Benin City in connection with a political case that was recently brought before the court. We would like to bring this to your attention as the Supreme Court has taken notice of it.
To clear the air, on Thursday, June 12th, 2025, the Honourable Justice in question went to Benin City to pay her respects to the mother of Mr. Hannibal Uwaifo, a prominent lawyer and former president of the African Bar Association.
“The aforementioned justice formally petitioned the Honourable Chief Justice of Nigeria for authorisation to travel on the trip before setting out on the expedition. As is usual and humane, this private visit was purely for the reasons of condolence and mourning.
Contrary to what has been said, the Honourable Justice did not go to any political gathering or ask to be included on any committee. After leaving St. Matthew’s Catholic Church for the funeral and making a quick appearance at the service of hymns, the Honourable Justice returned to his hotel room and skipped all further events.
There is little evidence to support the outrageous charges being made, as the image being circulated only shows the justice returning to his hotel alone.
This kind of malicious speculation and false speculation, particularly when spread publicly by those who should know better, is detrimental to the credibility of the Judiciary and serves no useful purpose, the Supreme Court wants to make clear.
Members of the public, particularly those who provide commentary on judicial proceedings, are urged to demonstrate responsibility and caution, as we firmly believe. Instead than spreading lies to harm the reputation of the justices or the judiciary, the proper course of action is to seek confirmation from the Supreme Court through its official communication channels in cases where there is uncertainty or lack of clarity.
“The rule of law will continue to be upheld by the judiciary, and they will not be sidetracked by efforts to discredit it.”