Bauchi Governor Swears In Six High Court Judges, Five Khadis Of Sharia Court
Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, on Monday swore in six new High Court Judges and five Khadis of the Sharia Court of Appeal, marking a significant step in strengthening the state judiciary.
During the oath of allegiance and office ceremony, Governor Mohammed emphasized his administration’s dedication to maintaining an independent judiciary. He also inaugurated Chairmen and Members of the Statutory Commission and the Board of the Public Procurement Bureau, underscoring his commitment to equipping the judiciary with necessary resources.
The Governor highlighted his administration’s provision of vehicles and essential resources to ensure timely, fair, and objective justice, noting, “As justice delayed is justice denied.”
Governor Mohammed praised State Chief Judge, Justice Rabi Talatu Umar, for her leadership and pledged continued support for the judiciary. He reaffirmed his commitment to non-interference in judicial matters, respecting the separation of powers.
He urged the newly appointed judges and Khadis to prioritize their responsibilities, emphasizing cooperation with his administration and upholding public trust. The Governor also mentioned efforts to decongest prisons through collaboration with the judiciary and other stakeholders.
The ceremony marked a historic moment in Bauchi State, with the largest number of Khadis appointed. Governor Mohammed congratulated the appointees, encouraging them to bring their expertise to their new roles and justify the confidence placed in them.
The Governor’s commitment to judicial independence and effectiveness has set a high standard for his administration, aiming for a new era of judicial excellence in Bauchi State.
Governor Mohammed charged the appointees to assist in realizing his administration’s vision, assuring that justice and fairness will guide government policies and programs. He described the appointees as vital to ensuring justice and fairness in the judicial system and public service, urging them to uphold the rule of law and service delivery.
Addressing the Statutory Commissions’ Chairmen and Members, the Governor called them technocrats and urged them to aid in repositioning critical economic sectors. He encouraged them to adhere to legal provisions for sustainable growth and development.
Governor Mohammed also instructed members of the Public Procurement Board to ensure effective procurement for the state’s rapid socio-economic development.
In her remarks, Justice Rabi Talatu Umar commended the Governor’s support for the judiciary since 2019. She noted that the swearing-in ceremony culminated a process started in 2023, promising that the judiciary would fulfill its responsibilities.
With the new appointments, the number of High Court Judges and Khadis of the Sharia Court of Appeal has risen to 15 and 16, respectively. The Chief Judge requested the Governor to provide Chief Magistrates and Magistrates with official vehicles to enhance their efficiency.
Justice Aliyu Bin Idris, on behalf of the sworn-in Judges and Khadis, promised to promote fairness and justice. Haruna Bappa Disina, Chairman of the Assembly Service Commission, delivered a goodwill message on behalf of the State Statutory Commissions, pledging loyalty and support.