By Martin Abocho
Justice Joel Agya, Chief Judge of Taraba state, has sworn in Magistrates and area court judges in the state.
He urged them to uphold impartiality and accountability in the conduct of their duties.
Agya, who gave the charge at the Swearing-In Ceremony of Magistrates and Area Court Members in Jalingo tasked them to dispense justice with fear of God.
He pointed out that Magistrate Courts and Area Courts constituted the foundation and frontline of the justice system.
He explained that they were the courts with which the vast majority of people first come into contacts.
“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 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 against corruption and justice compromised, assuring that the state judiciary sector would not tolerate such misconduct.
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 assignment.
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 to such offices.
Garba, who spoke on behalf of his colleagues gave assurance that they would not afford to fail the judiciary in the state.
It was gathered that while two were sworn in as Magistrates, seven were sworn in as Area Courts judges.
