Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, has reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to overhauling the judiciary in the state through comprehensive reforms, infrastructural advancements, and improved welfare for judicial officers. The Governor made these remarks during the 2024/2025 Legal Year ceremony held at the High Court Complex, Gombe.
Addressing a gathering of judicial officers, legal practitioners, and dignitaries, Governor Yahaya lauded the judiciary’s significant strides in ensuring timely and effective justice delivery over the past year. He particularly commended the resolution of cases across the state’s High Courts, Sharia Courts, Magistrate Courts, and Area Courts, emphasizing the judiciary’s role in upholding law and order.
In his remarks, the Governor highlighted ongoing judicial reforms aimed at addressing staff shortages caused by retirements, transfers, and other factors. He revealed plans to appoint additional judges and judicial staff to strengthen the justice system and ensure equitable access to justice.
“We are taking bold steps to address challenges in the judiciary, including staff shortages that have affected the administration of justice. By appointing more judges and supporting judicial staff, we aim to fortify the judiciary and ensure justice is accessible to all,” the Governor stated.
Governor Yahaya also detailed his administration’s efforts to enhance the judiciary’s working conditions through promotions, capacity-building programs, and digital transformation initiatives. He announced the construction of a new High Court Complex and the renovation of smaller courts, underscoring his dedication to creating a conducive environment for judicial activities.
Reaffirming his commitment to judicial autonomy, the Governor noted, “A financially independent judiciary is crucial for safeguarding its independence and ensuring the rule of law. We remain steadfast in our efforts to provide the judiciary with the necessary support to function effectively and without hindrance.”
The Chief Judge of Gombe State, Justice Halima S. Mohammed, praised the Governor’s contributions, noting that the state judiciary had resolved over 555 cases out of 616 filed at the High Court, with over 3,568 criminal cases concluded at magistrate and district courts. She expressed gratitude for the multi-billion naira investment in an ultra-modern High Court Complex and other critical interventions.
Similarly, the State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Zubair Muhammad Umar, credited the Governor’s leadership for the ministry’s achievements in advancing justice delivery. He addressed concerns about the periodic relocation of the Court of Appeal (Gombe Division), clarifying it as standard judicial practice.
Benjamin Sati, Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) in Gombe, commended the Governor’s infrastructure initiatives, including the recent swearing-in of new magistrates and Area Court judges, calling them “remarkable steps” toward strengthening the judiciary.
In recognition of his exceptional contributions to the justice sector, the NBA presented Governor Inuwa Yahaya with an award of excellence, cementing his reputation as a champion of judicial reforms in Gombe State.
