The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Tanko Muhammad has cautioned Magistrates and Judges of lower courts in the country against monetary gratification and all forms of inducement, saying it brings disrepute in the discharge of their duties.
Justice Muhammad gave the charge at the National Judicial Institute Abuja, Monday, while declaring open the 2022 induction course for newly appointed Magistrates and other Judges of the lower courts.
“I urge you all to decisively shun every vice which will bring the Judiciary into disrepute. Practices such as lateness to court, accepting any form of gratification or other forms of inducement must not be associated with you as Magistrates.
“It goes without saying, however, that any person found wanting will face the consequences of such unruly acts” the CJN warned.
In a related speech, the Administrator of the National Judicial Institute, Justice Salisu Abdullahi (rtd) reminded the participants of the crucial role they are expected to play in society and the need to balance conflicting interests in ensuring a stable polity.
Justice Abdullahi said the course will contribute in no small measure to the enrichment of their performances as Magistrates and Judges of the Lower Courts.
“It is even more relevant in light of the current drive of the Honourable, the Chief Justice of Nigeria and Chairman, Board of Governors of the National Judicial Institute, Hon. Dr. Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad, CFR, FNJI, to reform the administration of the justice system in Nigeria, the NJI Administrator stated.
The theme of the Induction Course; Nurturing High Standards of Judicial Performance, Justice Abdullahi said, “is timely, considering the role of the Lower Courts in our legal system”.
“As we are all aware, there are over two hundred and fifty (250) language groups in Nigeria with different customs and cultures; therefore the task of administering justice in such a conglomerate is not an easy one.
“The different customs operating in the various communities brings into focus the need to have courts equipped with personnel knowledgeable in the laws so that justice can be brought to the doorstep of every man and woman at the grassroots” Justice Abdullahi said.