The Chief Judge Of The Federal high Court, Justice John Tsoho says it has become imperative for judges to uphold the independence and sacredness of the judiciary especially at a time when recent court pronouncements, mostly on election-related cases, have placed the Judiciary on trial.
Justice Tsoho who made this known at the special session held to mark its new legal year and Golden Jubilee Anniversary assured litigants that the Court will put in its best to ensure speedy dispensation of cases before it in the year 2024.
Justice Tsoho who put the current number of Judges on the court bench at 95 tasked them to remain steadfast and continue to dispense justice without sentiments adding that their actions would shape the future of the Court and the country.
The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi as well as the President of the Nigerian Bar Association Yakubu Maikyau commended the court for its achievements despite the huge workload, they urged the judiciary not to hesitate in bringing erring officers to book.
Justice Tsoho disclosed that over one hundred and forty two thousand pending cases from 2022 legal year were added to over fifteen thousand fresh cases filed in 2023 legal year.
According to the CJ, “Today’s occasion is momentous in the existence of the Court, which originated in 1973. We have gathered not just to celebrate fifty years of legal excellence, or the administration of justice, but to reflect on the remarkable journey that has brought us to this historic milestone.
“Presently, Section 251 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) prescribes the exclusive jurisdiction of the court.
“It is noteworthy that this court, which started in Lagos with one court and five judges, now has 38 Judicial Divisions with 95 judges. Since its inception, the court has recorded huge growth and is now a significant pillar in the hierarchy of the Nigerian Judiciary.
From the pioneer five judges, the court now can appoint a maximum of one hundred judges.
It is pertinent to state that this court has faced difficulties and welcomed change during the previous 50 years, developing as a pillar of justice in our country.
“The court has had a significant influence on how the law is interpreted, how the legal system is shaped, and how justice is dispensed and perceived.
“On this note, I want to particularly appreciate the current 95 Hon. Judges of this court; I assure you that you are not here today by accident, but by divine orchestration.
“I want to encourage you to stand steadfast and continue to dispense justice, without fear or favour. “My dear brothers, it is destiny that has made us brothers, and the actions we take today and, in the future, will determine the destiny of not only this court, but perhaps the destiny of this country.
“I therefore urge us that just like Caesar’s wife, we must strive to be beyond suspicion.
“We must dispense justice with integrity and without bias; we must display utmost competence and courage as well as dispose of cases speedily.
Editor: Paul Akhagbemhe
