Taraba CJ Swears In Magistrates, Judges, Demands Impartiality, Accountability

Justice Joel Agya, the Chief Judge (CJ) of Taraba State yesterday swore in
magistrates’ and area court judges in Jalingo and urged them to be impartial and uphold
accountability in the conduct of their duties.
Agya also tasked them to dispense justice with the fear of God.
He pointed out that the magistrate and area courts constituted the foundation of the justice system, “the courts which majority of people first come into contact with.
“For many of our people, particularly those in rural and semi-urban communities,
these courts are not only the nearest ones to them geographically, but 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 shape how the
ordinary citizens perceive 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 to uphold the constitution, apply the law without fear or favour, affection or ill-will and to dispense justice with integrity and impartiality.”
The chief judge assured them of capacity building to ensure efficient service delivery in their duties.
He, however, warned against corruption and justice compromised, assuring that the state judiciary sector would not tolerate such misconduct.
Mr Yakubu Maikasuwa (SAN), the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, 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 assurance that they would not afford to fail the judiciary in the state.
While two were sworn in as magistrates, seven were sworn in as area court judges.