Bauchi State Chief Judge Rabi Umar on Wednesday inaugurated a new cadre of Sharia Court judges, charging them to uphold the rule of law and dispense justice with integrity, impartiality, and a strong sense of public duty.
The swearing-in ceremony took place at the High Court No. 1 premises in Bauchi. During her address, Umar described the judiciary as the primary legal recourse for citizens seeking fair resolutions. She instructed the judicial officers to carry out their functions without fear or favour, noting that public confidence in the legal system relies directly on the professional conduct and transparency of those presiding over cases.
Umar outlined clear operational expectations for the appointees, emphasizing diligence, continuous legal education, and strict adherence to ethical standards. She issued a specific directive on jurisdictional limits, warning judges against issuing orders that exceed their statutory authority. The Chief Judge highlighted instances where court directives inadvertently restrain security agencies from executing lawful duties, stating that such overreach disrupts law enforcement and will not be tolerated. Verified cases of professional misconduct will face strict disciplinary action.
The newly appointed judges will adjudicate civil matters, with jurisdiction covering land disputes, family law, and commercial conflicts. These courts function within Nigeria’s dual legal framework, operating alongside common law courts to deliver specialized civil justice. Umar stressed that strengthening capacity at this tier is critical for improving grassroots justice delivery, reducing case backlogs, and ensuring timely legal resolutions. She also recognized the Bauchi State Judicial Service Commission and the independent appointment committee for maintaining a rigorous, transparent selection process that prioritized merit and qualifications.
Speaking on behalf of the inductees, Muhammad Salihu accepted the appointment and thanked the state administration for the opportunity. He reaffirmed the group’s commitment to ethical service, procedural accuracy, and unwavering dedication to their judicial mandates. The induction reinforces ongoing judicial administration efforts in Bauchi State, aimed at stabilizing court operations, standardizing legal practices, and expanding access to justice for residents across the region.
