The Chief Judge of Benue State, Justice Maurice Ahemba Ikpambese, has issued a strong warning to magistrates across the state, urging them to reject corruption, favouritism and every form of judicial misconduct that could weaken public confidence in the justice system.
The warning was delivered on Friday during a strategic meeting with magistrates in Makurdi, where the Chief Judge emphasized the importance of integrity, fairness and professionalism in the administration of justice.
According to a statement released by the Protocol Officer of the Benue State High Court of Justice, David Jooli, Justice Ikpambese stressed that corruption extends beyond the acceptance of bribes.
He explained that allowing political influence, ethnic bias, religious considerations, financial interests or personal relationships to affect judicial decisions is equally corrupt and poses a serious threat to the credibility of the judiciary.
“The moment a judicial officer allows political, financial, social, ethnic, religious or personal considerations to influence a decision, justice ceases to exist and public confidence in the judiciary begins to erode,” the Chief Judge stated.
Justice Ikpambese also cautioned magistrates against unnecessary adjournments and delays in court proceedings, noting that justice delayed often amounts to justice denied. He encouraged judicial officers to deliver judgments promptly and remain committed to continuous legal education to improve their knowledge and efficiency.
The Chief Judge maintained that an independent, transparent and accountable judiciary remains essential for strengthening the rule of law and protecting the rights of citizens.
Responding on behalf of the magistrates, the Chairman of the Magistrates Association of Nigeria (MAN), Benue State Branch, Regina Alashi, assured the Chief Judge that members of the association would remain committed to upholding the highest ethical standards.
She pledged that magistrates across the state would work to reduce delays in the administration of justice while maintaining integrity, impartiality and professionalism in the discharge of their duties.
The meeting comes at a time when public scrutiny of Nigeria’s judicial system continues to grow, with many stakeholders calling for greater transparency, accountability and reforms aimed at strengthening confidence in the nation’s courts.
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