President Asks Judges to Learn Blockchain to Keep Up with Modern Crime – A Digital Adventure!

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In a rather curious turn of events, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria has boldly urged the esteemed judges of the land to delve into the intricate world of blockchain, cryptocurrency, and other such digital innovations. According to him, such knowledge is the only way to conquer the ever-evolving realm of financial crimes. Oh, how times have changed!

Addressing the gathering at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC)-National Judicial Institute (NJI) Workshop for Justices and Judges in Abuja, Tinubu, through the gracious delivery of Vice President Kashim Shettima, remarked that corruption has taken on new forms and that the justice system must, of course, keep up with these “innovations.” For, as any sensible person knows, the law cannot function properly without understanding the newest financial fads. After all, how could one possibly deliver a just ruling in a cryptocurrency fraud case without the faintest idea of what a blockchain is? Ridiculous, really!

Judges Must Keep Learning in the Digital Age

According to a rather enlightening statement from Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the Vice President on Media and Communications, the President insisted that our dear judges must continue to expand their knowledge. “Learning and relearning is no longer a mere catchphrase,” he quipped, “but an absolute necessity to remain relevant in this digital age.” How dreadfully modern! It seems our judges will soon be as well-versed in the art of digital currencies as they are in the finer points of legal precedent. How charming!

Additionally, Tinubu, ever the moralist, cautioned the judicial officers to maintain their honesty and independence, warning them that any sign of compromise within the justice system would, of course, erode the nation’s moral fibre. The President, ever the supporter of the judiciary, promised that the government would strive to improve the welfare of judges-perhaps even granting them a bit of extra comfort as they toil away in the pursuit of justice. How very thoughtful!

On a more practical note, the President also expressed concern about the slow pace of corruption trials. It seems many Nigerians, rather unreasonably, are frustrated by the delay in high-profile cases, while the smaller, less consequential cybercrimes seem to be settled with unseemly speed. “The judiciary must adopt new technology,” he proposed, “so that justice may be swift and sure.” But lest we forget, he reminded all those seated upon the Bench that their elevated status does not protect them from the consequences of corruption. Indeed, he insisted that there are “no special roads, hospitals, or communities for judges,” which, one presumes, is quite a discomforting thought for some of them. Nevertheless, he remained hopeful: “A Nigeria free of corruption is within our reach if we all commit to doing what is right.” A fine sentiment, indeed!

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2025-10-21 14:39