Governor Bago Encourages Judiciary’s Dedication to Principles of Justice

Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago of Niger state North Central Nigeria, has called on the judiciary to commit to upholding the principles of justice, fairness, and equality wholeheartedly.

Bago stated this at a special court session held at the Judiciary Complex in Minna, the state capital to celebrate the commencement of the 2023/2024 legal year.

Governor Umaru Bago recognized the indispensable role played by the judiciary in preserving the rule of law and ensuring justice for all, ultimately contributing to a stable society.

He emphasized the judiciary’s unwavering efforts in safeguarding citizens’ rights and upholding the integrity of the legal system.

Acknowledging the dedication of judiciary workers, the Governor praised the resilience of the legal system, which has continued to impartially and efficiently dispense justice, despite limited resources and growing caseloads.

Governor Bago says “I urged the judiciary to prioritize timely and accessible justice, explore innovative approaches to expedite case resolution, and continue to uphold ethical conduct and professionalism.”

“This administration will strengthen the relationship between the Executive and Judiciary, particularly in areas of welfare, promotion, accommodation, and mobility.”

Niger State’s Chief Judge, Justice Halima Ibrahim Abdulmalik, recognized both the challenges and successes of the State Judiciary.

She disclosed the inauguration of a monitoring team to address instances of thuggery and insecurity in line with the Administration of Criminal Justice Law Section 528.

Justice Halima explained that, “to enhance the administration of justice, steps have been taken to abolish trial within trial in criminal cases, ensuring the swift dispensation of justice.”

She also called on members of the Bar who employ tactics to prolong case hearings to desist, as such actions would no longer be tolerated.

The Chief Judge provided an overview of the caseload, with 3,418 cases pending in the year 2022/2023. In addition, 486 new cases were filed, 2,932 carried over from the previous year, and 448 cases were disposed of.

For the Magistracy, 8,840 cases were filed, 5,478 cases were resolved, leaving 3,243 pending.

The State’s Commissioner for Justice and Attorney General, Barr. Nasiru Mu’azu, described the legal system as a protector of human rights, a bulwark against injustice and a beacon of hope for those seeking redress.

Representatives from the legal community, including Senior Advocates of Nigeria and the Chairmen of the Nigeria Bar Association in Minna and Sulija, commended the Chief Judge for her efforts to reform the state’s judicial system.

They called for continued collaboration with relevant stakeholders to ensure the effective delivery of justice based on objectivity and devoid of sentiments.

A Legal Year serves as an occasion to usher in the new legal year and enables justices to reflect on the successes and challenges of the previous year while setting goals for the year ahead.