The Senate, yesterday, confirmed the nomination of Justice Mahmud Mohammed for appointment as Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), as Justice Aloma Mukhtar retires tomorrow.
The lawmakers confirmed Mohammed’s nomination, following his successful screening during plenary.
President Goodluck Jonathan had last week forwarded the name of Justice Mohammed to the Senate for confirmation as the new CJN, after nominating him for the position.
In a letter dated November 10, written to the Senate, Jonathan noted that the nomination of Mohammed was in line with Section 231 (1) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).
Speaking during his screening, Mohammed blamed the delay in the dispensation of justice in the country on judges. He also opposed the establishment of special courts to handle corruption cases.
“I do not support the creation of special courts to specifically deal with cases of corruption and so on. It is human beings who are managing the courts. It is not the court itself.
“No matter who you put there, if his integrity is not in good shape, you will see that the matters will not move.
“The name of the court does not matter. It is the personnel in the court that counts,” Mohammed said.
The Federal Judicial Service Commission (FJSC) had in October, nominated Mahmud Mohammed to the National Judicial Council (NJC), as required by the Constitution. The NJC after ratifying his nomination recommended him to President Jonathan who forwarded his name to the Senate for screening and confirmation.
Support InfoStride News' Credible Journalism: Only credible journalism can guarantee a fair, accountable and transparent society, including democracy and government. It involves a lot of efforts and money. We need your support. Click here to Donate