Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna has charged judges in the state to expedite action on the criminal and terrorism cases before them, lamenting that delays in prosecution embolden criminals.
Mr Sani gave the charge on Tuesday during the swearing-in ceremony of Murtala Jafaaru-Zubairu as a state High Court judge.
While emphasising the role of the judiciary in his administration’s fight against insecurity, the governor pledged to improve work environment, strengthen public trust and improve access to justice for citizens, and facilitating continuing education for judicial officers.
He argued that for the government to effectively degrade and defeat criminal elements in Kaduna State, agencies responsible for prosecution and the judiciary must prioritise security and ensure that there is no undue delay in prosecution.
Mr Sani: ‘’I am committed to enhancing a cordial working relationship with the judicial arm of the government, the governor said, promising to continue doing all that is necessary in promoting, projecting, and ensuring that our justice service delivery and indeed the justice sector keep working in line with the extant provisions of the law.
The governor promised that his administration remains dedicated to strengthening the judicial system, adding that he will continue to support the judiciary in all ways possible to ensure effective and efficient administration of justice.
Mr Sani further said that one of the key priorities of his administration is the revitalisation of the justice sector to effectively play its role of justice delivery.
According to him, “an efficient criminal justice system is critical to the building and sustenance of a stable, secure, and democratic society’’.
The governor, therefore, urged the newly sworn-in judge to discharge his responsibilities without fear or favour, adding that, “the oath you have taken today is for justice to be delivered without delay”.
Mr Sani pointed out that, “we cause incalculable harm to victims, the accused, witnesses, and the public when justice is delayed”.
While noting that Kaduna State Judges are ranked among the best in the country, he implored them to be steadfast and to maintain and sustain your integrity as the last hope of the common man.
