By Agency Report
…CJN to earn N5.39m, Justices N4.21m monthly
Senate on Wednesday, June 5, passed a bill that seeks to prescribe 300 percent in the salaries, allowances, and fringe benefits of judicial office holders in Nigeria.
The resolution of the Senate followed its consideration and adoption of the report of the Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights, and Legal Matters at plenary.
The report was presented by the Chairman of the committee, Senator Mohammed Monguno (APC – Borno North).
The House of Representatives had on March 20 passed the bill which provides a monthly package of N5.39 million for the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN).
The executive bill also provides a total package of N4.21 million for Justices of the Supreme Court, while the President of the Court of Appeal is to earn a total monthly package of N4.48 million.
In addition, Justices of the Court of Appeal are to earn a total monthly package of N3.73 million, while the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, President of the National Industrial Court, Chief Judge of the FCT High Court, Grand Khadi, FCT Sharia Court of Appeal, President of Customary Court of Appeal, Chief Judge of State High Court and Grand Khadi of State Sharia Court of Appeal and President of State Customary Court of Appeal are to earn a monthly package of N3.53 million.
Other allowances not embedded in the total monthly package include leave allowances, estacode per night of $2000 when applicable, duty tour allowances when applicable, severance gratuity of N80.78 million after successful completion of tenure as well as an option of motor vehicle loan to be repaid before the expiration of tenure.
Senator Monguno in his presentation said stakeholders at the public hearing of the bill were unanimous in their support for the Bill.
He said the purpose of the bill was sacrosanct to the justice sector reform initiative of the present administration.
According to him, the bill aligned with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the standing rules of the Senate.
“The proposed legislation is apt and timely as the increase in remuneration of judicial office holders is long overdue in light of the present economic realities and high inflation in the country,” he said.
Monguno said the bill was “quite innovative, aside from the increment in the basic salary, it also took cognizance of certain peculiarities of the administrative structure and operation of the judiciary.
“Generally the bill, if passed will birth an appropriate and commensurate remuneration that will ensure judicial independence and integrity.
“That no doubt adequate remuneration will allow judicial officers to focus on their professional development without worrying about financial constraint; hence it will improve their professionalism and decision-making skills.
“That fair compensation for judicial officers is crucial for maintaining public trust in the judiciary’s impartiality and integrity.
“When Judges are adequately compensated, it demonstrates a commitment by society towards the important role they play in upholding justice.”
He said the increase in remuneration for judicial office holders was essential to attract and retain highly qualified and experienced professionals who possess the necessary skills, knowledge, and integrity to serve on the bench.
“That certainly, the bill if passed will give financial security to retired judicial Officers after years of dedication in the profession and allow them to remain comfortable during their retirement,” he said.
He said the increment under consideration has been captured in the 2024 Appropriation Act.
The Nation
