The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has urged the Kaduna State Government to extend its ongoing judicial interventions to lower courts for balanced development and improved access to justice.

The Kaduna Branch Chairman of the NBA, Baba Aliyu, made the call in a statement on Tuesday in Kaduna.

Mr Aliyu commended Governor Uba Sani for significant improvements in the administration of justice in the state.

“The renovation and rehabilitation of the High Court Complex and other judicial interventions have created a more conducive environment for judicial officers to discharge their responsibilities.

“We urge that such interventions be extended to the magistrate and other lower courts, which have remained critical to effective administration of justice,” Mr Aliyu said.

The NBA chairman appealed to the governor to provide official vehicles for judicial officers serving in lower courts and improve their working conditions.

“Magistrates and other judicial officers at the lower courts are at the frontline of justice delivery.

“They therefore require adequate logistical and infrastructural support to perform their duties effectively,” the statement read.

Mr Aliyu commended the governor for providing 40 official vehicles to judges of the High Court, Shari’ah Court of Appeal, and Customary Court of Appeal.

“We also welcome the restoration of robe allowance for magistrates, including payment of their 2024 outstanding allowances.

“The measures demonstrate the state government’s recognition of the judiciary as an important pillar in sustaining the rule of law and ensuring effective justice delivery.

“Sustained investment in judicial infrastructure, logistics, and welfare across all levels of the courts would enhance justice dispensation and improve public confidence in the justice system,” Mr Aliyu said.

He urged the government to adopt a comprehensive approach to judicial development by ensuring that interventions were not concentrated only at higher levels of the court system. 

(NAN)