Gombe gets second female Chief Judge, after Bulkachuwa
….. Gov assures of cooperation
By Chima Azubuike
Justice Halima Mohammed, has been sworn-in as the second female Chief Judge of Gombe State and the fourth substantive.
The first was Zainab Bulkachuwa, who doubles as first female court president and her emergence was after the expiration of Joseph Awak’s tenure as the third after Hakila Heman, who was second.
Our Correspondent reports that her appointment followed recommendation by the National Judicial Council, as required by the Constitution and confirmation by the Gombe State House of Assembly.
Governor Muhammadu Yahaya, shortly after performing the ceremony restated his commitment to the independence of the Judiciary and the Legislature to carry out their constitutional responsibilities.
He explained that since inception of his administration, the three arms of Government have been partnering in the development of the State, adding that “such unity and harmonious relationship must be maintained going forward, as such unity is the major source of strength”.
The Governor said his administration would continue to support the Judiciary and Legislature in discharging their statutory responsibilities effectively for the overall benefit of the people of Gombe State.
He assured members of the Judiciary that he would continue to make available all necessary facilities and funding for effective discharge of their duties.
“Similarly, we will continue supporting the independence of Judiciary in Gombe State for enhancement of service delivery and speedy administration of justice,” Yahaya said.
While cautioning political actors about the need to pursue peace, the governor added, “as the nation gears up for the national elections, political parties, candidates and their supporters must play by the rules and avoid anything that could lead to breakdown of law and order.
“As I always stated, the peace and stability of our dear State is greater than the political ambition of any individual or group. Government is committed to deploying all available tools to guard our cherished peace and stability.”
He described the swearing-in event as joyous and historic in view of the fact that a woman takes the Oath of Office as the new head of the Judiciary arm of Government in the State.
He congratulated Justice Mohammed for distinguishing herself in service to the state and country.
“As you all know, she occupied the exalted office in acting capacity since October last year following the retirement of the former Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Joseph Ahmed Awak. Sequel to the recommendation of the National Judicial Council on the 23rd of January 2023, as required by the Constitution, I approved the appointment of Justice Halima Sadiyya Mohammed as the substantive Head of the State High Court of Justice and ratified by the Honorable members of the Gombe State house of assembly,” he added.
Governor Yahaya described Justice Mohammed as a woman of reputable legal expertise, outstanding experience, strong character, and remarkable integrity, who will continue to serve as a source of inspiration to young girls.
“As an experienced jurist, I have no doubt that she has what it takes to impact positively on the administration of justice in Gombe State. It is our belief that she will discharge her duties in this new role with utmost commitment and integrity, as she has always done for the benefit of our dear State,” he said.
The Governor noted that the importance of having such a judicial officer with high levels of experience and moral rectitude at this moment in the national history cannot be over emphasised.
He observed that it is undeniable that the unbridled corruption, violent crimes and numerous other forms of criminal behaviours have bedevilled the nation, making it extremely difficult, if not completely impossible, to meet the developmental aspirations and consolidate the nation’s constitutional democracy.
“These challenges facing our dear nation cannot be tamed without ensuring swift, sure, and fair administration of justice. It therefore goes without saying that we require an incorruptible judiciary where justice shall be dispensed to all manner of people in the State without discrimination, fear or favour”.
Earlier in an address of welcome the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Ibrahim Njodi commended the Governor for his friendly approach and harmonious working relationship with the Judicial Arm of Government in the state which he said “has since bolstered the welfare of Judicial staff and the quick and impartial administration of justice in Gombe State.”
