The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Aloma Mukhtar on Thursday charged Justice Zainab Bulkachuwa, new President of Court of Appeal, to shun political pressures while in office.
The CJN gave the charge during the swearing-in of Bulkachuwa as the substantive president of the appellate court at the Supreme Court in Abuja.
According to Mukhtar, judicial service is a noble calling, which is exemplified in the judge’s personality, hence, the need for Bulkachuwa to exercise the highest level of professionalism.
She stressed the need for the new president to discharge her responsibilities in line with the oath of office she had taken.
“In reality, the idea of citizens submitting their failings, vulnerabilities and frailties for determination before a human arbiter, underlines the need for the exercise of the highest standard of professionalism.
“I, therefore, enjoin you as a custodian of this sacred position, to shun all forms of political pressures and discharge your responsibilities in consonance with the oath of office you have just subscribed”, the chief justice said.
Mukhtar stated that Bulkachuwa’s appointment as the Appeal Court’s 6th President and first female since inception in 1976, came at a critical time when the judiciary was undergoing sweeping reforms.
The CJN also advised Bulkachuwa to reposition the court in order to restore public’s confidence in it.
“The office of the President of the Court of Appeal is very tasking and arduous, the task ahead is also enormous and demanding.
“You are charged to demonstrate purposeful leadership and ensure proper coordination of all the justices and activities of the court in order to foster greater efficiency in the dispensation of justice.
“The judiciary no doubt has come a long way and we cannot afford to fail in this crucial point in our nascent democracy”, Mukhtar said.
Bulkachuwa’s swearing-in ceremony was witnessed by justices of the Supreme and Appeal Courts as well as other dignitaries.
