The Kwara state Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq Monday said efficient and autonomous judiciary is key to rule of law and good governance in the country.
He added that autonomous judiciary will also provide refuge for aggrieved citizens.
The governor affirmed his administration’s commitment to an efficient and independent judiciary.
Governor AbdulRazaq said this during the special valedictory court session held in honour of retiring President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Zainab Adamu Bulkachuwa and the official commissioning of the new Court of Appeal Complex, Ilorin Division in Ilorin, the Kwara state capital.
Represented by his Deputy Kayode Alabi, Mallam AbdulRazaq acknowledged late Justice Mohammed Mustapha Akanbi’s contributions to the administration of justice as well as the expansion of the court of appeal which he said led to the establishment of Ilorin Division.
The governor also congratulated the retiring Justice Bulkachuwa whom he described as an achiever having had an excellent and successful career and service during which she made indelible contributions to the judiciary.
Earlier, Justice Bulkachuwa expressed hope that the commissioning would make it possible for the court to continue to operate in a peaceful and conducive atmosphere without fear or favour to uphold justice.
She described the Court of Appeal, as the second in the hierarchy of the courts and next to the Supreme Court of Nigeria in Nigeria’s judicial system.
Mrs appreciated the governor and government of Kwara state for their support and cooperation towards the project she solicited more support.
Justice Bulkachuwa hailed past and present Chief Justices of Nigeria and Presidents of the Court of Appeal associated with the project, especially Justice Ibrahim Tanko Mohammed and Justice Umaru Abdullah.
Past and present members of the National Assembly, Justices of Supreme Court, Court of Appeal and High Court and other stakeholders who contributed to its success.
Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin (The Nation)
