The Governor of Plateau State, Simon Bako Lalong, has sworn in the new Chief Judge of the State, Justice David Gwong Mann with a charge to resist any form of pressure that could compromise the Judiciary.
While performing the swearing-in at the Victoria Gowon Hall, New Government House Little Rayfield in Jos the state’s capital, the Governor said; “Justice Mann has paid his dues in the Temple of Justice and through experience, talent and patriotism, he has by the grace of God been elevated as the Chief Judge of the State.
“While I congratulate you on this well-deserved appointment, may I also remind my Lord that this task is a daunting one which calls for total dedication and commitment for the peace, progress and stability of Plateau State and Nigeria at large. Having spent your public life within this sector, no one can lecture you on what the citizens expect from you as the Head of this very important Arm of Government.“
He urged him to not only see the elevation as a call to duty but also as a trust given to him by God to represent him in the affairs of men by staying true to his Oath of Office and discharging his duties with the fear of God, without fear, favour, affection or ill-will.
Lalong said the new Chief Judge was coming into office when the state was operating Autonomy of the three Arms of Government including the Judiciary.
He, therefore, urged him to take advantage of all the latitude that the autonomy provides to ensure that Judicial Staff are well trained while the day-to-day running of the courts is seamless.
Lalong also drew the attention of the new Chief Judge to the challenges of speedy dispensation of justice, particularly as it involves some suspects that are arraigned for violent crimes including terrorism.
“We have noticed that the longer such cases stay in the courts, the colder they become and the tendency to further impact on security and safety of not just witnesses, but of the citizens at large. Findings have shown that lack of conclusion of some of these cases on time has seemed to create an impression among criminals that they can carry out crimes and not be punished. It is our view that when such cases are dealt with expeditiously and those found guilty are punished, it will deter others hoping to engage in criminal acts.“
Responding, Justice Mann said he was grateful to God for the opportunity to serve and the privilege to be elevated to the position of Chief Judge of Plateau State.
He promised to serve with integrity, honesty and justice as well as do his best to ensure that the rule of law is adhered to at all times.
Justice Mann also said he was aware of the challenges in the Judiciary and appealed for support and collaboration from the Executive and Legislative Arms as well as the Justices and other Judicial Staff and professional bodies.
PIAK
