Lawyers decry poor working conditions of magistrates in Taraba

Some legal practitioners in Taraba have expressed concern about the poor working conditions of magistrates and area court judges.

According to Mr Michael Godwin, a lawyer with Ayuba Chambers in Jalingo, magistrates’ remuneration was very poor and not commensurate with that of high court judges.

Godwin noted that magistrates were so underpaid and uncared for that they lacked official vehicles and could not afford any mobility.

Godwin called on the state government to, as a matter of urgency, address the disparity between magistrates and high court judges in the state.

Also speaking, Mr Simon Musa, also a lawyer with Musa Solicitors and Co., stressed the need to upgrade the welfare schemes for magistrates to enable them discharge their duties without any inducement.

According to Simon, they need to be immunised financially to prevent them from engaging in any corrupt practices.

He also advised the state government to provide befitting office and residential accommodations for the magistrates.

Also speaking, Mr Ayuba Gajere, a judicial officer, underscored the need to improve the welfare of all judicial officers in the state.

Gajere noted the risks judicial staff face in the course of their duties and called for measures to safeguard their lives.

He also called on the government to introduce a life insurance policy for judicial staff.

Vanguard News

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