Rivers Magistrates Call For Retirement Age Extension To Improve Judicial Efficiency

Magistrates in Rivers State have called on Governor Siminalayi Fubara to extend their retirement age from 60 to 65 years, arguing that the move would enhance service delivery in the state’s judicial sector.

The request was made during the 2nd biennial conference of the Magistrates Association of Nigeria (MAN), Rivers State chapter, held at the ceremonial court hall of the Rivers State High Court complex. The event, themed “The Role of Magistrates in Curbing Crime and Ensuring a Peaceful Society,” gathered magistrates from across the state, along with other judicial officers and legal professionals.

Collins Ali, Chairman of the MAN Rivers State chapter, delivered the keynote address, where he emphasized the importance of raising the retirement age. He urged Governor Fubara to initiate a legislative process by sending an executive bill to the state assembly to review relevant laws affecting the magistracy.

Among the dignitaries in attendance were Governor Fubara, represented by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dagogo Iboroma SAN, Chief Judge of Rivers State, Justice Simeon Amadi, represented by retired jurist Letam Ayordee, and former Supreme Court Justice, Mary Odili.

Speaking on behalf of the governor, Attorney General Iboroma commended the crucial role magistrates play in the administration of criminal justice, noting that they handle approximately 90% of criminal cases in the state. He acknowledged their efforts in maintaining peace and order through their work in the courts.

The three-day conference, which concluded on Friday, saw participants engage in discussions on improving judicial service delivery in the state. Magistrates expressed optimism that extending their retirement age would strengthen the judiciary and improve the quality of justice in Rivers State.