In a significant step towards enhancing the welfare and independence of Nigeria’s judiciary, the Senate has advanced a bill aimed at increasing the salaries and allowances of judicial officers across the country. The bill, titled “A bill for an act to prescribe the salaries, allowances and fringe benefits of judicial office holders in Nigeria and for related matters (2024),” successfully passed its second reading on Thursday, May 9, following thorough consideration and debate by the Senate.

Spearheaded by Senator Ashiru Yisa, the deputy majority leader of the Senate representing APC-Kwara South, the bill garnered widespread support from lawmakers who recognized the urgent need to address the longstanding issue of inadequate remuneration for judicial officers. Senator Yisa emphasized the importance of aligning judicial salaries with contemporary socio-economic realities to improve the welfare, capacity, and independence of the judiciary.

Senator Yisa stated, “Remuneration is needed to reflect the contemporary socio-economic realities of the times. The proposed legal framework will bring about significant improvement in the welfare, capacity, and independence of the judiciary, which have remained contentious issues of public discourse over the years.”

The bill, which had previously been passed by the House of Representatives on March 20, proposes significant increases in monthly packages for various categories of judicial office holders. Notably, the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) is set to receive a monthly package of N5.39 million, while justices of the Supreme Court will receive N4.21 million. Similarly, other judicial officers, including those serving at the Court of Appeal and various high courts, are slated to receive substantial salary increments.

Senator Barau Jibrin, the deputy president of the Senate, lauded President Tinubu’s efforts, emphasizing the silent sacrifices made by judicial officers and the imperative of recognizing their contributions through adequate remuneration. He echoed sentiments shared by his colleagues, highlighting the critical role of a robust judiciary in nation-building and the need for continuous support in addressing its institutional challenges.

Senator Jibrin remarked, “By the nature of the judicial officers, they don’t agitate. They cry in silence, and they don’t speak out. Other workers agitate, and they stage protests. But the judiciary doesn’t talk; they cry in silence.”

Furthermore, senators emphasized that improving the welfare of judges is essential for combating corruption and maintaining judicial integrity. Senator Mohammed Monguno stressed that adequate compensation would insulate judges from undue influences, thereby enabling them to dispense justice without fear or favor.

Senator Monguno emphasized, “Improving the welfare of judges will insulate them from corruption and ensure they deliver just and fair judgments.”

In unanimous agreement, senators approved the advancement of the bill to the Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights, and Legal Matters for further legislative scrutiny. The committee is tasked with conducting a comprehensive review and reporting back within four weeks, signaling the Senate’s commitment to expeditiously address the pressing issue of judicial remuneration.

The passage of this bill represents a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s judiciary and uphold the principles of justice, fairness, and accountability.

Credit: The Nation