Nwaorisara Kanu, Gombe state.
International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria, says it condemns in strong terms the non-confirmation of the current Acting Chief Judge of Gombe State as Chief Judge
According to a press statement obtained from the chairperson Gombe FIDA Elizabeth Okotie, on Wednesday, which was signed by Rhoda Prevail Tyoden, Country Vice President/National President and Eliana Martins, National Publicity Secretary.
“FIDA Nigeria unites with other groups and strongly condemn the non
confirmation of the Acting Chief Judge of Gombe State, the Hon. Justice Beatrice Iliya, as the Chief Judge of Gombe State, having completed her statutory three months period as Acting Chief Judge.
“Hon. Justice Beatrice Lazarus Iliya, a noble lady is not due for retirement for another three years minimum period; and has served diligently.
“We therefore strongly object to the planned swearing in of a junior male judge as Chief Judge in her place for whatever reason.
“FIDA Nigeria views the act of swearing in a male judge who is junior to other female judges as the substantive Chief Judge as act of gender discrimination!!
This is more painful as the UN 16 days activism against Gender Based Violence and Human Rights Violations is ongoing.
“We therefore call on His Excellency, the Governor of Gombe State to do the right thing in compliance with the Law by swearing in the most senior Judge who has been effectively acting. This is the only action that can prove that His Excellency is not gender biased and upholds justice. FIDA Nigeria stands against all forms of discrimination and injustice”.
Meanwhile attempts made by our correspondent to get response of the attorney general of Gombe state, Barr. Zubair Umar, was unsuccessful.
Earlier during the swearing in at the council chamber, Gombe Governor Inuwa Yahaya, congratulated the new Acting Chief Judge, Justice Muazu Pindiga, who he said is the next most senior judge in the High Court, charging him to dispense Justice without discrimination,fear or favour.
He said the appointment of “Justice Muazu Pindiga followed the expiration of the three months constitutional term for acting appointment of Justice Beatrice Iliya”.
The Governor thanked the former Acting Chief Judge for her meritorious service to the state and wished her well in her future judicial services.
He described Justice Pindiga as a fine and forthright judicial officer, and challenged him to bring his wealth of experience to bear in the administration of Justice in the state.
Governor Inuwa Yahaya reiterated his administration’s desire to maintain a harmonious working relationship with other arms of Government for the progress and development of the state.
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