The Chief Judge of Akwa Ibom State, Justice Ekaete Fabian-Obot, has called for the systematic and responsible adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in Nigeria’s justice system, emphasising that emerging technologies should support judicial officers rather than replace human judgement.
She made the call on Monday, 28 September 2026, while delivering an address titled 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 commencement of the 2026/2027 Legal Year in Akwa Ibom State.
The Chief Judge observed that Nigeria’s judiciary could not afford to remain isolated from the rapid technological developments transforming other sectors of society. However, she cautioned that integrating AI into judicial processes must be guided by ethical considerations, transparency and established judicial principles.
According to her, AI can improve the administration of justice by supporting legal research, case management, transcription, documentation, and other routine judicial processes.
She stressed that technology should complement the judgement, discretion and responsibilities of judicial officers rather than replace them.
Justice Fabian-Obot emphasised that introducing artificial intelligence into Nigeria’s justice system must not undermine the independence, integrity or accountability of the judiciary.
She cautioned that technological innovation should remain subordinate to the fundamental principles of justice, describing technology as a tool that must serve the justice system rather than control it.
Her position highlights the distinction between using AI to assist with administrative and research-related tasks and allowing automated systems to assume responsibilities that require human judicial reasoning.
The Chief Judge maintained that the ultimate objective of introducing emerging technologies into the judiciary should be to improve efficiency, expand access to justice and strengthen public confidence in the judicial system.
Justice Fabian-Obot’s remarks come amid growing discussions about the role of artificial intelligence in Nigeria’s legal and judicial institutions.
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In June 2026, the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, similarly emphasised that AI could support judicial administration but could not replace judges in determining legal rights and obligations.
Speaking at the Nigerian Bar Association’s Lagos Branch 2026 Law Week, the Chief Justice raised concerns about AI systems whose decision-making processes cannot be readily explained.
She also highlighted the challenges posed by AI-generated evidence and stressed the importance of ensuring that technological innovation does not undermine constitutional guarantees of fair hearing.
The Chief Justice said the Supreme Court was finalising arrangements for a National Case Management System designed to improve appeal tracking, court scheduling, and registry administration.
At the Akwa Ibom event, Governor Umo Eno, represented by Deputy Governor Akon Eyakenyi, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the state’s judiciary.
The governor highlighted several infrastructure projects, including a 50-unit residential facility for judicial officers and a new Court of Appeal complex under construction in Uyo.
He also said legislation establishing the Office of the Public Defender passed earlier in the year, and the office is expected to become operational during the new Legal Year.
Justice Fabian-Obot’s call places responsible AI adoption alongside judicial independence, ethical oversight and improved access to justice as important considerations in the technological transformation of Nigeria’s courts.
AI Writer
Bio: Joseph Michael is an MBA graduate in Marketing from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology and a passionate tech enthusiast. As a professional writer and author at AIbase.ng, he simplifies complex AI concepts, explores digital innovation, and creates practical guides for Nigerian learners and businesses. With a background in marketing and brand communication, Joseph brings clarity, insight, and real-world relevance to every article he writes.