The Chief Judge of Gombe State, Justice Halima Mohammed on Monday called on Governor Muhammadu Yahaya, to ensure the implementation of the state’s judiciary financial autonomy.
Mohammed disclosed that going by growing demand, the judiciary would maintain its facilities if adequately empowered.
She made this disclosure while declaring the commencement of 2024/2025 legal year in Gombe State.
She said, “Additionally, I humbly request for the implementation judiciary financial autonomy to accommodate the expanding needs of Gombe State judiciary with adequate funding.
“I’m confident with continued support from the governor, we will not only sustain our achievements but exceed them in the coming years.”
Continuing Mohammed lauded the governor for his administration’s support saying “Your Excellency, while we appreciate your tremendous efforts to see that the judiciary is restructured. I must humbly call your attention to the state of the lower courts many of which are in urgent need for renovation as they serve as access to residents at the grassroots.”
She disclosed that no fewer than 185 inmates were freed, stressing that they were to make use of the second chance given to them to rewrite their stories, “During this year’s prison visit a total of 185 inmates were released given deserving individual a second chance and in a bid to decongest our correctional facilities this exercise reflects our commitment to justice,” she added.
While commending the governor for the existing cordial relationship, she noted that the newly awarded contract for the construction of high court would boost the morale of judges, “The relationship between the judiciary, executive and legislature has created enabling environment where justice can be effectively administered and judicial independence upheld. The recent approval by his excellency for the construction of modern high court complexes is dear to our heart. This project when completed will significantly enhance the efficiency and functionality of our court services providing a more conducive environment for judicial proceedings and access to justice for all citizens of Gombe State,” Mohammed said.
She called for more employment of staff to reduce the current burden saying “this is so because the recent appointment by judicial service commission of 46 area Court judges were done within the system. Some of them had gone back to read diploma in law, some of the manpower used are already in the system. They are been paid, it makes the judiciary to be understaffed because those 46 area Court judges need to be replaced to enhance efficiency.
