TheCable

Nasir Idris, governor of Kebbi, has donated N100 million to the Equity Chamber of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) for the construction of its secretariat in Birnin Kebbi.

Idris made the donation on Tuesday at the inauguration of the Justice Sector Reform Team Steering Committee.

“I have considered your two requests for the building of a state secretariat and provision of transportation for lawyers in the state,” he said.

“I know it is uncomfortable for lawyers going to courts to ride commercial motorcycles, and ride in tricycles.

“I regard the construction of the secretariat as paramount at the moment, so that when the NBA is scheduled to hold a meeting in the state, it will not lack the accommodation to host guests.”

The governor also assured the lawyers that his administration will provide them with other necessary means of transportation, saying he had made funds available for the refurbishing of their grounded vehicles.

“I hold the judiciary in high esteem, and I am committed to justice sector reform for quick justice service delivery and access to justice by all, without hindrance,” he added.

“My assent to the justice reform bill, initiated by my administration, reflects my commitment to reform in the judicial system, for efficiency, effectiveness, and quick dispensation of justice.

“I have already made budgetary provision for justice reform in the 2024 budget of the state.

“I have improved welfare of judicial staffers, including their remunerations as well as infrastructural development of the sector.”

The governor commended the state house of assembly for the speedy passage of the justice reform bill.

Muhammad Usman, speaker of the state house of assembly, commended the governor for “upholding the principles of justice and fairness through the improvement of the judicial system”.

Umar Abubakar, chair of the steering committee and chief judge of Kebbi, said justice reform will improve delivery and enhance speedy dispensation of cases in courts.

Junaidu Bello, commissioner for justice and attorney-general of Kebbi, said the reform will reduce rights violations.

“It will also increase public awareness to justice, ensure protection of the rights of citizens and facilitate speedy trial of cases,” Bello said.

“I commend the chief judge for approving the establishment of special panels to adjudicate on rape cases, banditry and kidnapping which has helped immensely in justice delivery.

“I also commend the governor for his crucial support to reform in the justice ministry and the judiciary as well as the state house of assembly, for its quick passage of the bill on justice reform.”