The Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, has announced an upward review of the salaries for the 459 customary court judges serving across the state's 153 customary courts. This significant decision aims to enhance the financial well-being of these judicial officers and ensure that they are adequately compensated for their vital role in the justice system.
The salary increase is set to take effect from January 2025, reflecting the state government's commitment to improving the remuneration of judicial officers in light of rising living costs and the need for judicial independence. Governor Mbah emphasized that this adjustment is part of broader efforts to strengthen the judiciary and uphold the rule of law in Enugu State.
In his statement, Governor Mbah remarked, "The judiciary is a cornerstone of our democracy, and it is imperative that we provide our judges with fair compensation that reflects their responsibilities and contributions to society. This salary increase will not only improve their livelihoods but also promote greater professionalism within our courts."
The governor's decision follows a nationwide trend of salary reviews for judicial officers, as seen with recent legislative changes at the federal level aimed at addressing similar concerns regarding judicial pay. The increase for customary court judges is expected to bolster morale and attract qualified professionals to serve in these essential roles.