All stakeholders in the judiciary must work as a team to overcome the current challenges confronting that arm of government, Sokoto State Governor, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal has said.
Speaking on Tuesday at the swearing-in of a new Chief Justice of the State, Justice Bello Abass, Tambuwal said recent arrests of senior members of the judiciary has placed a huge burden which will require unity of purpose to overcome.
He said the judicial arm of government holds an important role in the society, and judges must always live above board to set an example.
He said his administration will partner with all the arms of government to ensure quick and efficient dispensation of justice for the benefit of the society.
“For us in the executive, we consider the other two arms of government as equal partners. We will stand side by side with the judiciary to ensure quality justice is dispensed.
“What the judiciary is facing in Nigeria today is a trial moment. As Chief Justice in Sokoto, you are likely to face similar challenges confronting judiciary in Nigeria. I want to assure you that we will work with you to achieve success,” the Governor added.
Tambuwal admonished family and friends of the new Chief Justice to avoid exerting undue pressure on him, because he has little or no favour to dispense.
“Let me appeal to family, friends and well-wishers not to exert undue pressure on the Chief Justice. As you are aware, he has no contract to give, and has no favour to dispense. You should pray for him to enable him succeeds in his new task,” he added.
The Governor urged members of the bar and the bench to support the CJ, and appealed to them to see themselves as one family working for a common purpose.
“We’ll give you unconditional support. And within the limited resources available, we will ensure you overcome the challenges facing you in your places of work,” Tambuwal said.
Justice Abass succeeded Justice Aishat Dahiru who retired from service in August after twenty years as Chief Justice of Sokoto State.