Lawmakers during plenary at the Lagos House of Assembly have read for the second time the “Magistrate Courts Amendment Bill” 2026, with a view to improve the welfare and working conditions of magistrates, retain experienced judicial officers in the service and as well strengthen the magistracy and enhance effective justice delivery in the State.
The Amended Bill proposes an extension of the retirement age, enabling skilled and experienced magistrates to prolong their service to the State.
This initiative they say, aims to promote continuity in the cases presented before the courts.
Speaking on the amended bill, the Chairman, Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights, Public Petition and LASIEC, and member Member representing Oshodi-Isolo I, Mr Oladipo Ajomale said that the proposed amendment sekks to strengthen the magistracy, improving the conditions of service of magistrates and enhancing the administration of justice in the State.
Advocating for raising the retirement age of magistrates from 60 to 65 years, Mr. Ajomale contend that permitting experienced magistrates to retire at 60 could result in the forfeiture of valuable knowledge and expertise at a critical juncture when their experience is most essential.
Contributing to the discussion on the proposed amended bill, Mr. Bonu Solomon of Badagry Constituency I advocated for more research method and improved welfare of magistrates in the State.
Mr. Bonu asserted that enhancing the welfare of magistrates would serve as a motivating factor, enabling them to fulfill their responsibilities more efficiently, thus contributing to improved justice delivery throughout the State.
Giving his remarks, the Speaker of the House, Chief Mudashiru Obasa, said the retirement age of magistrates should not be based solely on age, but also on their competence and ability to continue performing effectively.
Consequently, the Speaker committed the proposed amended bill to the Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights, Public Petitions, and LASIEC for further deliberation and report its findings in a week.
Culled: Radio Nigeria