The National Judicial Institute has dismissed circulating reports alleging that judges sang the political chorus, “On Your Mandate We Shall Stand,” for President Bola Tinubu during the opening ceremony of the 2025 All Nigeria Judges Conference in Abuja.

In a statement on Wednesday, the NJI described the claim as false, unfounded, and a misrepresentation of the ceremony, which was inaugurated by President Tinubu.

The NJI’s Head of Information, Media, and Public Relations, Kolade Umoru, stated that no judge engaged in any political chant at the event.

He noted that the only song rendered collectively by participants was the National Anthem, performed at both the beginning and end of the ceremony.

According to the institute, the brief rendition of the “On Your Mandate” tune came solely from the Guards Brigade Band as part of its military ceremonial protocol while ushering the President to the podium.

The judiciary had no influence over the band’s musical choices.

Umoru explained that judges rose to their feet only as a mark of respect to the Office of the President, not in response to any political song.

“The judiciary had no control over the musical selections of the brigade, which operates under military ceremonial procedures. Out of due deference to the Office of the President, judges rose as the President walked to the podium,” the statement said.

Reaffirming its commitment to non-partisanship, the NJI emphasised that the judiciary remains constitutionally neutral and insulated from political activities or expressions of political allegiance.

“The judiciary will continue to uphold its oath of office with dignity, independence, and unwavering fidelity to the Constitution,” it added.

The institute stressed that the 2025 All Nigeria Judges Conference is a statutory and professional gathering focused on strengthening the justice system and reinforcing public confidence in the judiciary.

It warned that any attempt to distort the solemnity of the event or attribute political motives to judicial officers is misleading and a disservice to the public.

The NJI urged the media and the public to verify information before sharing it and to refrain from amplifying false narratives capable of undermining public trust in national institutions.