The Adamawa State Judiciary on Monday received a boost in its workforce with the swearing-in of 22 newly appointed magistrates.
This is contained in a statement made available to newsmen in Yola by the Chief Judge of the state, Justice Hafsat Abdulrahman, who administered the oath of office at the High Court complex.
Justice Abdulrahman said the appointment of the new magistrates to the lower bench came at a critical time to strengthen justice delivery across the state.
According to her, the ceremony was a testament to the judiciary’s commitment to upholding the principles of justice, fairness, and the rule of law.
“As you have been sworn in today, you have undertaken a profound oath to deliver justice impartially and fairly to all individuals who come before you seeking justice,” she said.
“Allow me to remind you that this oath is more than mere words; it is a solemn pledge, a promise to stand in place of God Almighty in passing judgment on the affairs of humanity — a role that is indeed next to divine.”
The Chief Judge urged the new magistrates to uphold the constitutional rights of defendants, particularly when handling issues related to bail, stressing that “by law, bail is free.”
She called on them to carry out their duties with diligence, integrity, and commitment, describing the judiciary as a vital pillar of democracy.
Justice Abdulrahman reaffirmed the judiciary’s resolve to uphold the rule of law and ensure an accessible, efficient, and effective judicial system for all citizens.
She also expressed appreciation to Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri for his administration’s continued support to the judiciary.
In her goodwill message, the Chairperson of the Magistrates Association of Nigeria (MAN), Adamawa State chapter, Chief Magistrate Uwani Danladi, congratulated the newly appointed magistrates, urging them to discharge their duties with dedication.
Responding on behalf of his colleagues, Magistrate Peter Joseph Gyanda expressed gratitude to God and the Chief Judge for the opportunity to serve, pledging that they would uphold justice for all manner of people.
“The responsibility is enormous, but we accept it wholeheartedly and assure that we will do justice to all without fear or favour,” Gyanda said.
The swearing-in ceremony was attended by top judicial officers, members of the bar and bench, and family members of the new magistrates.
