Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, on Monday administered the oath of office to three new judges of the Katsina State High Court, urging them to uphold integrity, fairness, and the trust of the people.
The appointees are Justice Maryam Umaru Abdullahi, Justice Shamsuddeen Abdurrahman Ƴammama, and Justice Abubakar Muhammad Dikko.
The swearing-in ceremony took place at the Government House in Katsina, with dignitaries from the executive, legislative, and judicial arms of government in attendance, alongside traditional rulers, members of the State Executive Council, and families of the new judges.
The newly appointed judges bring years of academic excellence, professional distinction, and service to the bench.
Justice Maryam Umaru Abdullahi is an accomplished lawyer with degrees from the University of Abuja and institutions in the United Kingdom.
She has previously served as State Solicitor, Head of the Notary Public Unit at the Supreme Court, and Deputy Director at the National Judicial Institute.
Justice Shamsuddeen Abdurrahman Ƴammama, described as youthful and scholarly, is a graduate of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, with two Master’s degrees, including one in Oil and Gas Law from the UK. His career spans academia, the National Judicial Institute, and the National Assembly.
Justice Abubakar Muhammad Dikko is a seasoned practitioner with more than 20 years of experience at the Supreme Court of Nigeria, where he rose to Head of Litigation. He holds a Master’s degree in Law from the University of Abuja and once served as Research Assistant to a former Chief Justice of Nigeria.
Governor Radda described the swearing-in as “a remarkable milestone in the state’s judicial history,” adding that the appointments would strengthen the judiciary and expand its capacity for justice delivery.
“Today, we are swearing in three new Judges of the Katsina State High Court. This is a significant step forward for our judiciary because it increases our capacity and strengthens the administration of justice in our state,” he said.
The Governor commended the State Judicial Service Commission for conducting what he called a transparent and merit-driven selection process.
Call for Integrity and Reflection
Radda reminded the new judges that their oath of office was a sacred covenant before God and the people of Katsina State.
“First of all, I congratulate you and wish you God’s guidance in performing your responsibilities. This oath of office and act of allegiance are enough for all of us in the Executive, Legislature, and Judiciary to reflect deeply on the responsibilities we bear,” he said.
He further advised the judges to regularly revisit their oaths, stressing the need for humility and accountability.
“After some time, maybe a month, I advise that we all go back and read this oath again. It will remind us that whatever we do, God is watching and aware of all our actions,” the governor added.
Justice for All, Especially the Voiceless
Governor Radda stressed that the judiciary remained the last hope of the common man and urged the judges to deliver justice without fear or favour.
“Everyone looks up to you for justice, both those who have a voice and those who do not. Especially those who do not. I believe your position will guide you to the right path if you perform your duties with diligence and sincerity,” he said.
The Governor assured that his administration would continue to support the judiciary and legislature, highlighting their importance to peace, order, and governance in Katsina.
“We will continue to give full support to the judiciary and the legislature so that we can maintain harmony among the three arms of government. There is nothing we can achieve as a state without a strong and effective judicial system. The judiciary remains the backbone of peace, order, and justice in our society,” he said.
Radda also warned against delays in justice delivery, saying such setbacks could erode public confidence in the judiciary.
“As they say, time waits for no one. It is important that we dispense justice promptly and fairly so that we can build the kind of society we all aspire to, one anchored on justice, peace, and unity,” he said.
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