Report by ALI MUHAMMAD RABIU; Editing by BASIRAT MEMUDU
The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has advised legal practitioners to exercise caution in the application of artificial intelligence (AI) into the nation’s legal framework to maintain its sanctity.
Speaking at the Muslim Lawyers Association of Nigeria (MULAN) 16th annual general conference in Ilorin, Kwara State with the theme “Artificial Intelligence, Law Religion In Nigeria”, the CJN urged legal practitioners to use artificial intelligence (AI ) with critical minds to avoid disruption of the nations established cultural norms and values.
Represented by the Presiding Justice, Court of Appeal, Ilorin Division, Justice Ridwan Abdullahi, Justice Kekere -Ekun said that artificial intelligence is the replication of human intelligence into machine to engage in problem solving using technology which makes work easier and faster.
Justice Kekere-Ekun maintained that the Nigerian legal system must be kept abreast with this new development so as not to be left behind in adapting to this novel artificial intelligence in the adjudication of cases.
In his address, Kwara State governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, represented by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Barrister Senior Ibrahim, advised Muslim lawyers to adopt the use of artificial intelligence to support research in legal practice.
He assured the legal practitioners the determination of his administration to collaborate with all stakeholders to strengthen the state judiciary and promote legal practice.
In his keynote speech at the event, Former minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Professor Isa Ali – Pantami, urged the federal government through the National Assembly to consider a National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Development and Deployment Act in Nigeria to address deployment of AI for crimes.
Professor Ali-Pantami advised Muslim legal practitioners to ensure Islamic ethics are respected while adopting the use of artificial intelligence in their practice.
On his part, the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, represented by Professor Yusuf Ali SAN, urged legal practitioners to use artificial intelligence to champion the cause of humanity and ensure progress of the religion.
Earlier in his address of welcome, the National President of the Muslim Lawyers Association of Nigeria (MULAN), Saidu Muhammed Tundun-Wada, said artificial intelligence innovations present unprecedented opportunities, enhance access to justice and improve legal service delivery.
He urged the legal practitioners to carefully use artificial intelligence in a ways it will adhere to the fundamental ethical principles that govern the profession and religion.
