Shield Courts From Intimidation, Fashola Urges New CJ

Governor Babatunde Ragi Fashola  of Lagos State has expressed displeasure with a situation where accused persons turn the premises of the State High Court into a praise venue by thugs, party faithfuls and family members.

He, has therefore, charged the new Chief Judge of the State, Justice Inumidun Akande, to check the unbecoming  scene where accused persons intimidate the court with heavy presence  of thugs.

The Lagos State Governor gave the charge at the swearing-in ceremony of Akande during which he noted that no true justice can be gotten from such an atmosphere.

Urging the new CJ to take quick action on the matter, Fashola said that it will be a mockery of justice if such nuisance  was allowed to continue.

Fashola was apparently referring to the scene that  had usually occurred when the embattled Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Chieftain, Chief Bode George,  appears in court for treat accompanied by praise-singing thugs and party faithfuls.

Justice Akande, who until her appointment was the Administrative Judge of the State Judiciary is 62 years old.

She attended the University of Lagos and was called to the bar in 1971. She started her career in the state ministry of justice immediately after her law school. She became a judge in 1989 and has headed several election tribunals and enquiries.

Meanwhile, the new Chief Judge has promised to see to the quick dispensation of justice in the state. “I will ensure that the courts are working and that judicial officers are also made comfortable, that the judiciary is properly manned while ensuring judges are appointed. I will also try to decongest the prisons”, she promised during her swearing in ceremony.