Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, witnessed the swearing-in of Justice Dije Abdu Aboki as the substantive first female Chief Judge of Kano State.
According to a statement released by the governor’s spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin-Tofa, this is in conformity with the provision of Section 271 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, on recommendation of the Nigeria Judicial Council (NJC) and confirmation by the state House of Assembly.
DailyNews24 reports that the swearing-in ceremony was held on Monday at Africa House in the Kano State Government House.
Speaking after the oath-taking, Governor Abba Kabir informed the gathering that the new chief Judge was appointed based on a proven track record in ensuring the dispensing of justice, saying, “You have distinguished yourself throughout your career as a professional judicial officer that is committed to ensuring justice and fairness.”
The Governor reminded the new Chief Judge of the task at hand: “Let me remind you that your new position has placed a huge burden of responsibilities on your shoulders, and these responsibilities are amana (trust or pact) between you and the good people of Kano State, and most importantly, between you and Allahu Subhanahu Watala.”
Governor Yusuf urged her to keep the trust and commence the process of reforming the state Judiciary for the citizens to look into issues like perceived miscarriages of justice, perceived unjust and misjudged cases, alleged judicial corruption, and cases allegedly manipulated by money, power, and personal favors, among others.
He assured the commitment of his administration to meet its obligations to the Judiciary and will complete all abandoned projects, including new court complexes, the recouping of court buildings that were hitherto sold and demolished, and prioritizing the welfare of judicial officers.
On the need for a continuous, smooth working relationship between the arms of government, the Governor added “The three arms of government constitute the government, and the complimentary relationship is what would engender rapid and sustainable development in our state, and the judiciary has a vital role to play in our state’s journey to enduring peace, economic prosperity, and sustainable development”.
In her speech, the new Chief Judge, Hon. Justice (Mrs.) Dije Abdu Aboki, appreciated the state Governor for proposing her, being recommended by the NJC, and receiving final affirmation by the Kano state house of assembly, pledging to work hard to justify the confidence reposed in her.
Justice Dije attributed the cordial relationship existing between the arms of government to the quality leadership of the state governor and expressed optimism that the relationship will continue to wax stronger.
Those who delivered goodwill messages at the event include the former Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami (SAN), Justice Amina Wambai from the International Federation of Female Judges, the Grand Khadi of Kano, Tijjani Yusuf Yakasai.
Among, was also Justice Abdu Aboki (a spouse of the new chief Judge), the former President of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), Abubakar Balarabe Mahmd (SAN), a representative of His Eminence, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alh Mustapha Garba Mustapha, and the Dan Darman of Sokoto.
Others are the representatives of the emirs of Kano, Bichi, Karaye, Rano, and Gaya, Sarkin Dawaki Mai Tuta, Alh. Bello Abubakar Tuta, and Justice M.L. Garba from the Supreme Court.
