Stakeholders seek review of welfare for FCT magistrates

Legal practitioners in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have expressed deep concern over the welfare and working conditions of magistrates, urging immediate government intervention to safeguard judicial integrity and maintain public confidence in the justice system.

Mr. Chukwu Obioma described magistrates as the “backbone of the judiciary” but decried what he termed poor remuneration and systemic neglect.

According to him, many magistrates are underpaid and do not enjoy essential allowances, a situation he warned could expose the judiciary to corruption.

“They play a critical role in justice delivery, yet their welfare is far from satisfactory. The government must urgently review their remuneration,” Obioma said.

Another legal practitioner, Ms. Ngozi Steven, noted that many magistrates struggle to make ends meet despite their strategic roles at the grassroots level.

She stressed the need for improved salaries, decent accommodation, reliable transportation, and adequate security, particularly in view of rising insecurity nationwide.

Steven pointed out that some magistrates are forced to rely on public transportation and reside in the same communities as the individuals they sentence, describing the situation as a serious safety risk.

“This is a major threat to their lives because magistrates are human beings too,” she said, warning that neglecting their welfare could ultimately undermine the integrity of the entire justice system.

Also speaking on the issue, Babatunde Olatunji and Samuel Ameh highlighted what they described as dire working conditions in many magistrate courts across the FCT.

Olatunji noted that some magistrates operate in courtrooms lacking basic amenities, such as fans and air conditioning, making it difficult to maintain concentration during lengthy legal proceedings. (NAN)

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