Tijanni Zololo was on Monday sworn in as Acting Grand Khadi of the Sharia Court of Appeal, Plateau State, by Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang at the New Government House in Jos.
Administering the oath of office, Governor Mutfwang described the ceremony as a significant step in strengthening the judiciary and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to building an independent, efficient, and credible justice system in the State.
“Today marks an important milestone in positioning the judiciary to perform its functions and duties as optimally as envisioned by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” the governor said, stressing that the Sharia Court system is constitutionally recognised and must be properly positioned to discharge its mandate.
Read also: Oborevwori flags off construction of N59.7bn Agbor/Uromi junction flyover
Governor Mutfwang emphasised that justice must be anchored on truth, noting that truth remains the guiding compass for fair adjudication, especially in sensitive matters handled by the Sharia Court, such as family life, inheritance, and asset distribution within the Islamic faith.
“Justice is always a challenge to dispense, but one guiding principle is to stand on the truth. When truth becomes our cardinal objective, it becomes our guiding compass,” he stated, while cautioning judicial officers against allowing personal interests to obstruct justice.
The governor also disclosed ongoing reforms in the judiciary, including the recommendation of six High Court judges by the National Judicial Council, efforts to reduce judges’ workload, adoption of technology-driven processes, and plans to establish the Plateau State Law Reform Commission to review outdated laws.
In his response, Zololo expressed gratitude to God and appreciation to Governor Mutfwang for the confidence reposed in him, pledging to discharge his duties with honesty and integrity.
The ceremony was witnessed by Josephine Piyo, the Deputy Governor, senior government officials, members of the judiciary, traditional and religious leaders.
