The judiciary, a crucial arm of government, plays a vital role in upholding justice and interpreting laws. However, its effectiveness is often hindered by inadequate welfare packages for judges, which has been a public interest topic in Nigeria for years.
Despite repeated calls for an independent judiciary over the years, no significant progress has been made until lately.
Experts, unanimously believe an independent judiciary is essential for democratic governance, as it ensures impartial interpretation of laws and checks on the executive and legislative arms of government.
However, the current welfare packages of judges undermine their independence, making them vulnerable to external influences.
As Prince Lateef Fagbemi, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, noted, “The present-day reality is that the judiciary has stagnated on the same salary scale for over 16 years; this is unacceptable and antithetical to meaningful judicial reform.”
He bitterly made this complaint at the public hearing on ‘A bill for an Act to prescribe the Salaries and Allowances and fringe Benefits of Judicial Officeholders in Nigeria and Related Matters Bill, 2024.
Chief Judge of Bornu, Justice Kashim Zannah who represented CJN Olukayode Ariwoola at the public hearing expressed his enthusiasm. He posited, “But actually, as clearly demonstrated, the real interest under consideration is the interest of these citizens, as they will bear the consequences of a deprived judiciary.”
Impact of Poor Welfare Packages
The poor remuneration of judges and judicial officers contributes significantly to the challenges confronting the judiciary. Low salaries and inadequate emoluments lead to brain drain, corruption, and reduced morale among judges, ultimately affecting the quality of justice delivery.
According to a report by the National Judicial Council, over 50% of judges have not received a salary increase in the past decade, despite rising inflation and cost of living.
Government’s Efforts and Commitment
President Bola Tinubu has demonstrated commitment to judicial reform, recognizing the importance of an independent judiciary for democratic governance. His government has taken steps to reposition the judiciary, including approving a substantial increase in judges’ salaries and emoluments, currently undergoing legislative action. Additionally, the government has ensured the full complement of 21 Supreme Court Justices, as required by law, for the first time in many years.
While the government’s efforts are commendable, more needs to be done to ensure the welfare of judges and judicial officers. A comprehensive approach to judicial reform should include; regular salary reviews and adjustments to reflect inflation and cost of living as well as improved emoluments and fringe benefits for judges and judicial officers.
Enhanced infrastructure and resources for courts and judicial institutions should also be considered as priority by the Federal Government.
While the government’s efforts are encouraging, more inclusive and comprehensive measures are necessary to ensure the independence and effectiveness of the judiciary.
