Chief Judge of Akwa Ibom State, Justice Ekaete Fabian Obot, has called for systematic application of Artificial Intelligence in the administration of justice in Nigeria.
She cautioned that technology must remain “the servant of justice, not its master.”
Obot stated this while delivering an address entitled, “Justice in the Age of Artificial Intelligence – Transforming Nigeria’s Justice Sector through the Efficient Use of Artificial Intelligence,” at a public lecture marking the 2026/2027 legal year in Akwa Ibom.
The Chief Judge noted that the Judiciary cannot afford to remain isolated from the rapid technological developments reshaping virtually every sector of society.
She stressed, however, that the adoption of Artificial Intelligence in the justice sector must be guided by judicial values, ethical considerations, transparency, and the need to preserve the independence and integrity of the judicial process.
According to her, “Artificial Intelligence has the potential to improve efficiency in the administration of justice by assisting with legal research, case management, transcription, documentation and other routine processes.
“Technology should complement, rather than replace the judgment, discretion and responsibility of judicial officers.”
Justice Fabian-Obot maintained that the ultimate purpose of every technological innovation introduced into the justice system must be to enhance access to justice, improve efficiency and strengthen public confidence in the Judiciary.
At a thanksgiving service, Justice Obot, expressed gratitude to God for His mercies throughout 2026, while expressing strong faith that God would continue to protect and preserve the Judiciary and the people in the new Legal Year. She also thanked the Governor, Pastor Umo Eno for listening and catering to the needs of the Judiciary.
On his part, the governor, represented by the Deputy governor, Akon Eyakenyi congratulated the Judiciary and appreciated the robust relationship that has existed between the Executive and the Judiciary since the inception of his administration.
The Governor also disclosed that earlier in the year, a law was passed establishing the Office of the Public Defender (OPD), which would become operational in the course of the new Legal Year.
Speaking at the occasion, Pastor Sylvanus Ukafia of the Insight Bible Church urged Judges to remain conscious of all their dealings and remember the existence of a greater Judge above who would ultimately bring all works to judgment.
Akwa Ibom Chief Judge calls for careful application of AI in Nigeria’s justice system