The senate on Wednesday approved a bill seeking improved salaries, allowances, and fringe benefits of Judicial office holders in Nigeria.
This came after the adoption of the report of the Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters presented by the Chairman of the committee Senator Mohammed Monguno (lBorno North).
Monguno while presenting the report indicated that stakeholders at the public hearing of the bill were unanimous in their support for its passage.
He indicated that the purpose of the bill is expedient, sacrosanct to the justice sector reform initiative of the present administration.
According to him the bill was in consonance with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the standing rules of the Senate.
“The proposed legislation is apt and timely as the increase in remuneration of judicial office holders is long overdue in light of the present economic realities and high inflation in the country”.
Monguno explained further that the bill was “quite innovative”, aside the increment in the basic salary, it also took cognisance of certain peculiarities of the administrative structure and operation of the judiciary.
“Generally the bill, if passed will birth an appropriate and commensurate remuneration that will ensure judicial independence and integrity.
“That no doubt adequate remuneration will allow judicial officers to focus on their professional development without worrying about financial constraint; hence it will improve their professionalism and decision making skills.
“That fair compensation for judicial officers is crucial for maintaining public trust in judiciary’s impartiality and integrity.
“When Judges are adequately compensated, it demonstrates a commitment by society towards the important role they play in upholding justice”.