The Chief Judge of Gombe State, Justice Halimah Mohammed, on Wednesday swore in 51 newly appointed judges, comprising five Upper Court judges and 46 Area Court judges, in a move aimed at strengthening the judiciary’s capacity to deliver justice.
The swearing-in ceremony, held in Gombe, was followed by a one-day induction and refresher course for the judges, focusing on enhancing justice delivery, jurisdictional competence, and adherence to the code of conduct.
Speaking during the event, Justice Mohammed described the appointments as a significant milestone for the state’s judiciary.
She urged the judges to serve with fairness, diligence, and strict adherence to the rule of law.
“The elevation of these judges comes with the confidence that they will uphold the values of integrity, impartiality, and a profound sense of justice. The trust placed in you by the public is sacrosanct,” she said.
The Chief Judge also praised the participation of experienced Area Court judges in the refresher course, underscoring the judiciary’s commitment to lifelong learning.
She stressed the importance of efficient case management, noting that “justice delayed is justice denied.”
The Chairman of the Gombe State Area Court Judges Association, Garba Abubakar, lauded the appointments as monumental, describing them as a proactive step to address the vacancies created by retirements and incapacities in the lower courts.
He also commended Justice Mohammed for her dedication to judicial reforms and capacity building, which he said would enhance the delivery of justice across the state.