FROM RAHILA ABDULLAHI, KADUNA
Kaduna State governor, Uba Sani said the judiciary has an important role to play in government’s sustained fight against insecurity, as delay in prosecution emboldens criminals.
The governor noted that for government to effectively degrade and defeat criminal elements in Kaduna State, agencies responsible for prosecution and the judiciary must prioritise security and ensure that there is no undue delay in prosecution.
Sani said this at the swearing in of Justice Murtala Zubairu as a High Court judge at the Government House, yesterday.
The governor also pledged to improve the work environment for judicial personnel, strengthen public trust in the justice system, improve access to justice for citizens and facilitate workshops for judicial officers.
“I am committed to enhancing a cordial working relationship with the judicial arm of government, promising to continue doing all that is necessary to promote, project and ensure that justice delivery and indeed the justice sector keeps working in line with the extant provisions of the law.”
The governor promised that his administration remains dedicated to strengthening the judicial system, adding that he will continue to support the judiciary in all ways possible to ensure effective and efficient administration of justice.
Governor Sani added that “one of the key priorities of our administration is the revitalisation of the justice sector to effectively play its role of justice delivery.”
According to him, “an efficient criminal justice system is critical to the building and sustenance of a stable, secure and democratic society.”
The governor urged the newly sworn in judge to discharge his responsibilities without fear or favour, adding that “the oath you have taken today is for justice to be delivered without delay.”
Sani pointed out that “we cause incalculable harm to victims, the accused, witnesses and the public when justice is delayed.”
While noting that Kaduna State judges are ranked among the best in the country, he implored them “to be steadfast, maintain and sustain your integrity as the last hope of the common man.”
