Imo CJ Seeks Special Salary For Magistrates

The Chief Judge of Imo, Justice Benjamin Njemanze, has called for a special salary structure for magistrates and other judicial workers in the country.

Njemanze made the call in Owerri recently at the South East Conference of the Magistrates Association of Nigeria.

The chief judge said the special salary scheme had become necessary to commensurate with the services they rendered.

He also called for a comprehensive insurance scheme for magistrates and other judicial workers because of the risks involved in their jobs.

Njemanze further called for the computerisation of the country’s judicial system to ensure efficient delivery of justice.

In an address, the national vice chairman of the association (South East), Nkeiruka Franklin-Iguh, called on state governments in the zone to improve on the condition of services of magistrates.

Franklin-Igu urged the state governments to give adequate support to the association to enable it to achieve its aims and objectives.

She commended Gov. Rochas Okorocha of Imo for his commitment to improving the state’s judiciary.

In a remark, Okorocha stressed the need to introduce alternative dispute resolution into the country’s judiciary system, saying it would enhance speedy dispensation of justice.

The governor said that magistrates could effectively promote alternative dispute resolution through collaborating with traditional rulers.

He said his administration was committed to the welfare of magistrates and other judicial workers in Imo, promising a special package for retired magistrates and judges.

Okorocha also announced the donation of a new bus to the Imo chapter of the association and promised to allocate lands to members to enable them build personal houses.

Highlight of the occasion was the conferment of Friend of Magistrates Award on the governor for his commitment to the welfare of magistrates in the state.