NBA tackles Makinde over‘maltreatment, neglect of judiciary’
Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Ibadan branch, has decried what it described as inadequate funding of the judiciary, particularly the non-functionality of rent tribunals and customary courts in Oyo State. Branch
Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Ibadan branch, has decried what it described as inadequate funding of the judiciary, particularly the non-functionality of rent tribunals and customary courts in Oyo State.
Branch Chairman Mr Ibrahim Lawal spoke at the weekend while hosting the leadership of Correspondents’ Chapel of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, who visited Aare Afe Babalola Bar Centre, NTC Road, Ibadan.
Lawal, who noted that the condition of judiciary in the state was unimpressive, said NBA executives had on several occasions appealed to Governor Seyi Makinde to address the challenges facing the judiciary in the state, particularly lower courts.
He said the governor in the last seven years had failed to inaugurate the Presidents of Grace ‘C’ Customary Courts, adding, ‘’these are the courts that bring justice to the people at the grassroots.’’
Lawal said customary courts and rent tribunals had not been functional in the state, noting there might not be any economic development without strengthening its justice system.
He said Grace ‘C’ Customary Courts last operated during the administration of the late former Governor Abiola Ajimobi, ‘’and it will be the joy of NBA to see the state judicial sector playing its role effectively.’’
Lawal said: “Some magistrates in the state don’t have official vehicles. We have said this repeatedly and made representations to the government to address this issue.
“It is unacceptable that a magistrate who sits in judgment over criminals has to board the same bus as those same individuals.
“It is equally troubling that a magistrate without a personal vehicle may have to accept a ride from someone who has a case before him.
“This compromises dignity and independence. We take this opportunity to appeal to Governor Makinde to take action and address these challenges before leaving office.
“The condition of our courts is also deeply concerning, particularly the magistrates’ courts and the state customary courts of appeal. Many of them are in poor condition with no comfort for those working there. These judicial officers are our colleagues and deserve better treatment.”
He said electricity supply to the Customary Court of Appeal was recently disconnected by Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC), due to unpaid electricity bills.
The Chairman of Correspondents’ Chapel of the NUJ, Mr Yinka Adeniran, solicited NBA’s assistance in training members, in order to improve their knowledge in reporting judiciary matters.
