By Saidu Adamu
Jalingo
Justice Joel Agya, Chief Judge of Taraba State, on Wednesday swore in Magistrates and area courts judges, urging them to uphold impartiality and accountability in the discharge of their duties.
Agya, who gave the charge at the swearing-in ceremony of new Magistrates and Area Court judges in Jalingo tasked them to dispense justice with the fear of God.
He pointed out that Magistrate and Area courts constituted the foundation and frontline of the justice system.
He explained that they were the courts which vast majority of people first approach to seek justice.
“For many of our people, particularly those in rural and semi – urban communities, your courts are not only the nearest courts geographically but also the most accessible symbols of justice, fairness and the rule of law.
“You therefore, play a pivotal role in maintaining public confidence in the Judiciary.
“The manner in which you conduct your courts, treat litigants and determine cases largely shapes how the ordinary citizens perceives justice.
“Today’s event is not a mere formality, it is a defining moment in your professional lives and a significant event in the administration of
justice in our dear state.
“By the oath you have taken, you are to uphold the constitution, apply the law without fear or favour, affection or ill-will
and to dispense justice with integrity, diligence and impartiality,” he added.
The Chief Judge assured them of capacity building to ensure efficient service delivery in their duties.
He, however, warned them against corruption and justice compromised, assuring that the state judiciary sector would not tolerate such misconducts.
In his remark, Mr Yakubu Maikasuwa, SAN, Attorney – General and Commissioner for Justice in the state urged the newly sworn in judicial officers to ensure that legal justice was achieved in their areas of assignments.
Maikasuwa, while congratulating the newly sworn in judicial officers, commended the Chief Judge for injecting the bench with young and vibrant members.
Mr Nafiu Garba, one of the newly sworn in Magistrates thanked the Chief Judge for finding them worthy to be appointed into such offices.
Garba, who spoke on behalf of his colleagues gave assurances that they would not fail the judiciary in the state.
Our Correspondent reports that while two officers were sworn in as Magistrates, seven others were sworn in as Area Courts judges.
(vitalnewsngr.com)
