The President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, has asked judges to work on ways to ensure that more people access justice.
Justice Dongban-Mensem noted that every judicial officer was under the sacred responsibility of interpreting the law with an unwavering commitment to justice.
She said: “As judges, we are entrusted with the sacred responsibility of interpreting the law with integrity, impartiality, and an unwavering commitment to justice.
“In fulfilling this duty, we must remain steadfast in our principles, resolute in our integrity, and receptive to evolving practices that enhance both efficiency and access to justice.”
The Court of Appeal President spoke in Abuja on Tuesday at the 40th Federal High Court’s annual judges’ conference, held as part of the activities marking the court’s 2024/2025 legal year.
She commended the Federal High Court for its contributions, over the years, to justice administration as well as its enduring commitment to the principles of justice, equity and the rule of law.
Justice Dongban-Mensem noted that the court has, for long, been a pillar in the country’s judicial system, consistently demonstrating a firm commitment to maintaining the sanctity of its Constitution and ensuring justice for all.
She also commended the court’s leadership for the continuous improvement in its operations and added that the judges’ conference, which brings together judges of the court nationwide, was a great idea.
Justice Dongban-Mensem said such an annual gathering serves as a unique platform for deliberating on critical judicial issues, sharing experiences and best practices, fostering collaboration and promoting continuous legal education.
She added: “Such engagements are vital to the growth and advancement of our judicial system.
“It is through forums such as this, that we can continuously improve ensuring that the Judiciary remains a pillar of hope to the common man, and a steadfast guardian of democracy, fairness and equity.
“I must commend the Chief Judge for the progressive vision and efforts in embracing reforms that enhance efficiency, accountability and transparency in judicial processes.
“The strides made in leveraging technology, streamlining procedures and ensuring timely delivery of justice are commendable and deserve recognition,” Justice Dongban-Mensem said.
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Speaking earlier, the Chief Judge (CJ) of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho urged his fellow judges to remain united in defending the integrity of the court, “especially in the face of determined assault to our collective image by our sworn detractors.”
Justice Tsoho, who spoke in a similar vein on Monday, noted that the Federal High Court has, in recent times, been deliberately put on trial, but added: “we cannot afford to fail.”
While calling for more funding for the third arm of government, Justice Tsoho said adequate financial allocation to the Judiciary was key to effective service delivery and should be sustained and made a priority.
He expressed dissatisfaction with the attitude of some lawyers who take pleasure in portraying judges in negative terms, whenever court decisions are not in their favour.
“Such legal practitioners are advised to always resort to appeal rather than condemning judges and making unfounded allegations of lack of integrity in the judiciary.
“Let it be known to the Bar that such unprofessional conduct is destroying the confidence and hope of the people in the judiciary and that is not good for sustenance of the rule of law in our nation,” he said