By Haruna Aliyu, Birnin Kebbi
BIRNIN KEBBI — The Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Kebbi State Branch, Aminu Hassan, has dismissed allegations of widespread corruption within Nigeria’s judiciary.
Hassan spoke on the sidelines of the flag-off of the Equity Bar Law Week in Birnin Kebbi, where he addressed concerns often raised by members of the public about the administration of justice.
According to him, some litigants who are dissatisfied with the strength of evidence against them may attempt to influence judicial outcomes, but he maintained that judicial officers are expected to uphold the law and ethical standards.
He urged members of the public to report any instances of misconduct and stressed that both the offering and acceptance of bribes are offences under the law.
“We have always discouraged the giving and taking of bribes. The courts play a critical role in maintaining order and resolving disputes in society. We believe the judiciary remains the last hope of the common man,” he said.
On concerns about delays in the administration of justice, Hassan said judicial reforms introduced in Kebbi State have improved the speed of case management and adjudication.
He also welcomed efforts by the Kebbi State Government to digitise the judiciary, describing the initiative as a positive step towards improving efficiency and aligning the justice system with global technological trends.
The NBA chairman encouraged legal practitioners to use the Law Week to update their professional knowledge and skills, adding that technological advancements present opportunities for faster and more effective justice delivery.
The Equity Bar Law Week was attended by Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris, the state Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, and other members of the legal community.