In a passionate plea, retired Justice Amina Adamu Augie of the Supreme Court has called on the National Assembly to take swift action in amending the constitution of Nigeria. Justice Augie believes that this amendment is crucial for the enhanced functioning of the country’s courts.
During a valedictory court session held in her honor at the Supreme Court, Justice Augie addressed the 10th National Assembly, specifically appealing to the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, who was her former student at the Law School. She commended Senator Akpabio for his proficiency in evidence law and urged him to use his position to achieve what others before him could not.
Highlighting the challenges faced by the judiciary, Justice Augie emphasized the need for constitutional amendments to empower the courts to uphold the rule of law, justice, and democracy more effectively. She expressed her hope that future justices would not have to endure the same struggles faced by those who came before them.
Justice Amina Augie, who officially retired on September 3, 2023, after reaching the mandatory retirement age of 70, urged the National Assembly to seize this opportunity to make the necessary changes. By doing so, the courts and their justices would be freed from the constraints that hinder their mandate.
Recognizing the importance of pioneers who lead the way and inspire others, Justice Augie stated that she would not be envious when the existing situation is rectified. Instead, she encouraged individuals with the strength, zeal, and passion to bring about positive change.
Justice Amina Augie was appointed as a Justice of the Supreme Court on November 7, 2016. She graduated with a Second Class Upper Division in Law from the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University) in 1977 and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1978.
