By Daniel Oluwatobiloba Popoola
The Chief Judge of Akwa Ibom State, Justice Ekaete Fabian Obot, has called for the systematic application of Artificial Intelligence in Nigeria’s justice system, stressing that technology must remain a tool for improving justice rather than replacing judicial responsibility.
Obot made the call while delivering a public lecture marking the 2026/2027 legal year in Akwa Ibom, where she spoke on “Justice in the Age of Artificial Intelligence – Transforming Nigeria’s Justice Sector through the Efficient Use of Artificial Intelligence.”
The Chief Judge said the Judiciary could not remain isolated from rapid technological developments reshaping different sectors of society, but cautioned that AI adoption must be guided by judicial values, ethical considerations, transparency, and the preservation of judicial independence and integrity.
She said AI could improve efficiency in the administration of justice by supporting legal research, case management, transcription, documentation and other routine processes.
“Technology should complement, rather than replace the judgment, discretion and responsibility of judicial officers,” Obot said.
She stressed that the ultimate purpose of introducing technological innovations into the justice system should be to improve access to justice, enhance efficiency and strengthen public confidence in the Judiciary.
Obot, who also spoke at a thanksgiving service marking the new legal year, expressed gratitude to God for His protection and mercies throughout 2026, while praying for continued preservation of the Judiciary and the people in the new legal year.
She also thanked the Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, for listening to the needs of the Judiciary and responding to them.
Representing the governor, the Deputy Governor, Akon Eyakenyi, congratulated the Judiciary and commended the relationship between the Executive and Judiciary since the inception of the administration.
Eyakenyi also disclosed that the state had earlier in the year passed a law establishing the Office of the Public Defender, OPD, which would become operational during the new legal year.
Speaking at the occasion, Pastor Sylvanus Ukafia of Insight Bible Church urged judges to remain conscious of their conduct and responsibilities, reminding them of the existence of a greater Judge who would ultimately bring every work to judgment.
