A video showing a senior magistrate in Anambra State riding a commercial motorcycle to work has sparked outrage over the welfare of judicial officers in Nigeria.
The female judicial officer was filmed being transported on an ‘okada’ to Neni Chief Magistrates’ Court, allegedly having no official vehicle allocated despite her position.
The development has drawn attention to the persisting poor remuneration and conditions of service for magistrates and lower court judges nationwide.
Critics say the situation compromises the dignity of the judiciary and exposes judicial officials to risks considering the sensitive cases they handle.
There have been calls on the National Judicial Council, state judiciaries and governments to urgently improve funding and welfare to safeguard the integrity of courts.
The Anambra State Government allocated 2.1% of its 2022 budget to the law and justice sector. The judiciary is yet to address the controversy over the viral video.
Observers note that until judicial autonomy is achieved and better provisions made for lower court judges, some will continue to face humiliation seen in the magistrate’s ‘okada’ ride.
The episode reinforces clamors for enhanced judicial welfare, funding and autonomy to protect the dignity of courts and officers.
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