The Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, Kabir Akanbi, has urged judiciary correspondents across the country to ensure balanced, fair, and objective reporting of judicial activities at all levels.

Akanbi specifically charged journalists to safeguard the judiciary's image and credibility through well-researched, unbiased, and factual coverage of its activities. He made these remarks while hosting executive members of the National Association of Judiciary Correspondents (NAJUC), Abuja chapter, led by Mr. Kayode Lawal of DAILY POST during a courtesy visit in Abuja.

The Chief Registrar expressed concern over disappointing reports about the judiciary in public spaces, particularly on social media platforms. He emphasized that the entire judicial sector and its officers should not be disrespected or condemned because of perceived mistakes by a few individuals.

"I make bold to say that majority of judicial officers in the country are men of honour, integrity, highly educated and impeccable characters, who have been discharging their adjudicatory duties without blemish, fear or favour," Akanbi stated.

He described it as unpatriotic and unfair to label the entire judiciary as failing to meet Nigerians' expectations in justice dispensation due to a few lapses. Akanbi noted that identified bad eggs are being addressed through the National Judicial Council to maintain the arm of government's sacred duty.

The Chief Registrar argued that sensational reporting by some media houses, especially on social media platforms seeking attention and visibility, ultimately damages Nigeria's reputation. He pointed out that many reports target judicial officers and the Bench who lack information officers or personal assistants to defend them.

"When these reports are reeled out to the public without proper fact checking, the public always believed, and at the end of the day, it is Nigeria as a country that has her name dragged into the mud," Akanbi stated.

He maintained that such reporting portrays the country negatively and exposes Nigerians to ridicule and unfair treatment internationally. Akanbi called for increased collaboration between NAJUC members and the judiciary to foster a cordial working relationship.

Earlier, NAJUC Abuja chapter Chairman, Mr. Kayode Lawal, thanked the Chief Registrar for hosting the association's executive members, noting that the visit was primarily to congratulate him on his appointment as Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court of Nigeria.

Lawal highlighted that judiciary journalists serve as spokespersons for judicial officers by disseminating their judgments to the public, emphasizing the need for harmonious working relations. He acknowledged the significant responsibilities Akanbi faces in leading the apex court's administration and urged him to justify the trust placed in him.

The NAJUC Chairman expressed confidence in Akanbi's potential success, citing his extensive experience and background as a thorough-bred lawyer, astute administrator, and effective manager. Lawal assured the Chief Registrar of NAJUC's commitment to factual, objective, and fair reporting of judiciary matters.

Barrister Tobi Soniyi, Special Assistant (Media) to Chief Justice of Nigeria Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, informed the Chief Registrar about the longstanding relationship between NAJUC and the Supreme Court, requesting that this cordial relationship be maintained and strengthened.

Top management members of the Supreme Court attended the courtesy call.