BY UTHMAN AL- NASEER,,MINNA.
The Chief Judge of Niger State Justice Halima Ibrahim Abdulmalik has admonished Magistrates in Niger State to always uphold Justice, integrity and the rule of law in the overall Interest of the ethical norm of Justice.
Justice Halima Abdulmalik also reminded them to operate within the realm that shape the lives of individuals influences societal norms and uphold Justice
Speaking at the opening of one day refresher course organized for Magistrates by the education and training committee of the Ñiger State Judiciary held at Princes Azzahara hotel in Minna Thursday, Justice Halima Ibrahim Abdulmalik explained that the training was an opportunity to pause and reflect on the profound responsibilities that we carry as judges and Magistrates.
According to the Chief Judge, as Judges and Magistrates,we operate in that shapes the lives of individuals, influence societal norms and uphold democracy adding that, "our decisions resonate far beyond the courtroom,the echo through families, communities and the very fabric of our society".
This weighty responsibility, Justice Halima Ibrahim, observed demands that as Judges and Magistrates they are not only knowledgeable of the law but are also equipped with the latest tools, insight and best practices to navigate the complexities we face.
" As you embark on this refresher course, I urge you to approach every session with a keen mind and an open heart.
" Our esteemed trainers and facilitators have meticulously designed this curriculum to cover the initiator of Criminal and civil cases in Magistrate and district courts respectively,the Jurisdiction of the Magistratend district courts respectively.
" The Jurisdiction of the Magistrate and district courts in criminal and civil matters, default summons and intest developments in legal proceedings among others". she asserted.
She urged the participants to embrace the opportunity afforded by the training to renew their perspective, share experience and Challenge their understanding saying," we must remain lifelong learner's for the law is not statics it is dynamic and it requires us to adopt and grow".
The Chief Judge requested the Magistrates to take the chance afforded through the refresher course by reminding themselves of the core values that unite them as Minister in the temple of Justice, insisting that impartiality, fairness,and accountability stand tall among them
" Each case we encounter represents a unique set of circumstances that deserve our careful scrutiny and humane consideration.
"We must strive to ensure that justice is served without prejudice or bias, and we must stand as guardians of the rights of every individual who comes before us" she added.
Noting that as the Justice system navigate the shifting sands of legal practice,the Chief Judge urged the participants not to lose sight of the humanity behind the case they adjudicate.
She pointed out that building empathy in the practice enable them to appreciate the lives affected by their decisions as judges and Magistrates stressing that a quality that not only enhances our roles as judges but also reinforces Public trust in our justice system.
Speaking earlier, the Chairman Education and Training Committee of the State Judiciary, Justice Abdullahi Mikailu commended the Chief Judge for the vision, leadership and unwavering commitment that made this initiative a reality.
He said the inaugural education and training programme for Magistrates in our Jurisdiction is aimed at improving their skills, describing the training as a solemn reaffirmation of the Collective commitment to the rule of law,to Judicial excellence, and to the sacred responsility entrusted " to us by the society".
According to Justice Mikailu, Magistrates often the first point of contact between the Judiciary and the ordinary citizen " The integrity, knowledge, and comportment of Magistrates profoundly shape Public perception of justice" .
He pointed out that it is imperative that Magistrates are well equipped not only With knowledge of the law but also with the ethical standards, Judicial temperament,and Procedural skills necessary to discharge their duties with fairness,diligence and impartiality.
