Lagos State Chief Judge, Justice Olufumilayo Atilade yesterday warned 29 new magistrates inaugurated into the state judiciary to ‘keep-off ’ their spouses, relations and associates if they must succeed on the Bench.
She specifically asked them to shun any act capable of derailing them from the new assignment as to those whose much was given, much is also expected, stressing that they must not allow their spouses, relations, supporters and friends to interfere in any way with their responsibilities in order to enable them succeed on the Bench.
“Their work from now on must be a “keep-off zone” for all and sundry.
This is the only way you can assist them to succeed in their new career and protect them from negativity of the profession”, she stressed. Justice Atilade admonished the new magistrates to refuse all entreaties and requests that would come into the “no-go areas” following their inauguration into the Bench.
The inauguration of the 29 new magistrates, 22 of who are women and seven men was conducted yesterday at The Foyer of the High Court, Igbosere.
Their inauguration brought to 148 the total number of magistrates in the state. She however reminded them to be steadfast as the powers they now cloaked with under the various laws of the land were enormous, cautioning them not to take such powers with levity as they affected the life and liberty of citizens.
Justice Atilade said: “The powers, as you will find out in due course, are to be wielded with great responsibility and after much thought. These are not powers that are to be abused or used for selfish interests or for the fun of it. “The job of a magistrate is a difficult job; it is not an easy job at all. It is not for the laid back person or party going socialite.”
