By Adamu Ado Sokoto
The Nigeria Bar Association 2024 law week Caliphate Branch has resolved that Judicial Professionalism and Discipline have been identified as key elements of attaining nation building in Nigeria.
“The judiciary upholds the rule of law and saddles with protecting the rights of all citizens through which it creates a stable and prosperous society in which the people can feel safe and secure.”
However, speakers at the event emphasized the need for citizens to uphold professionalism, display high moral standing and patriotism in the discharge of their duties and responsibilities at their various duty post.
Professor Abubakar Matazu, Dean Faculty of Law, Usmanu Danfodio University said unethical conduct, lack of adherent to lay down procedures, indiscipline, unprofessional conduct by public and private office holders as well as official corruption in low and high places are some of the factors identified to be responsible for the space pace of national development in Nigeria.
“The legal practitioners were concern on how to reverse this negative trends and build a prosperous nation that will guarantee peace and stability of all citizens is the concern of the legal practitioners in Sokoto state as they gather for the 2024 law week.”
However, Muhammad Shuaibu, Presiding Justice, Court of Appeal Sokoto Division said that judicial officers and other legal practitioners are charge to live above board as the judiciary is charge with the sacred responsibility of dispensing justice for the purpose of safeguarding and protecting the constitution and its goals.
He emphasised the need for judicial independence, merit-based appointment, transparency, accessibility of judiciary, ethical standard and accountability as well as continue legal education are some of the suggested reforms to achieve effective and efficient Judicial system to guarantee national development.