NBA Ibadan Urges Governor Makinde To Reconstitute Judicial Service Commission And Address Magistrates’ Welfare

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Ibadan Branch, has called on Governor Seyi Makinde to reconstitute the Oyo State Judicial Service Commission. The association stressed the need for immediate action in line with the 1999 Constitution for effective justice administration.

NBA Emphasizes Constitutional Compliance

In a statement by the branch chairman, Ibrahim Lawal, Esq., NBA Ibadan urged Makinde to follow Paragraph 5 (a-f), Third Schedule, Part II. This provision outlines how the governor must appoint commission members, avoiding potential challenges that could disrupt its operation.

Importance of the Judicial Service Commission

Lawal outlined the vital role of the commission in ensuring judicial efficiency and fairness across Oyo State. He cited Paragraph 6 of the Constitution, which empowers the commission to:

• Advise the National Judicial Council on appointing judges and other judicial officers.
• Recommend judicial officers’ removal following constitutional guidelines.
• Appoint, dismiss, and discipline judicial staff, including Chief Registrars, Magistrates, and Customary Court members.

He warned that failure to reconstitute the commission could impair justice delivery statewide.

NBA Ibadan Warns of Judicial Disruption

“The Judicial Service Commission is essential. Its non-constitution seriously impedes justice. We urge Governor Makinde to reconstitute it promptly,” Lawal stated.

NBA Appeals for Vehicles for Magistrates

NBA Ibadan also expressed concern over the lack of vehicles for Magistrates and Grade A Customary Court Presidents. The association described the situation as demeaning and unsafe, exposing officers to public transport risks.

“It is appalling that judicial officers rely on public transport. We appeal to the governor to urgently address this issue,” Lawal added.

Administrative Delays in Vehicle Allocation

Lawal noted reports that some vehicles may have been bought but are delayed by administrative bottlenecks. “Rumour suggests administrative delays hinder the governor’s efforts. We urge him to resolve this and improve judicial welfare,” he said.

NBA Ibadan called on Makinde to act swiftly to enhance the judiciary’s functionality and officers’ welfare in Oyo State.

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