The newly appointed Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice of Kano State, Abdulkarim Maude, has vowed to instill discipline among state lawyers and the introduction of reforms aimed at ensuring the speedy dispensation of justice and prison decongesting across the state.
Speaking during his maiden press briefing on Monday at the ministry’s headquarters in Kano, Maude expressed appreciation to Governor Abba Yusuf for entrusting him with the responsibility, pledging to uphold integrity, fairness, and the rule of law in all legal affairs of the state.
The commissioner declared that the state government would no longer tolerate laxity among government lawyers who fail to attend court sessions or arrive late, stressing that such conduct undermines justice delivery.
“We have received reports that some lawyers from the Ministry of Justice either arrive late or fail to appear in court altogether.
“By the special grace of God, we will take drastic measures to address these challenges. Justice delayed is justice denied, and we will not allow indiscipline to compromise justice in Kano State,” Maude stated.
He unveiled a four-point agenda for the ministry, focusing on institutional reform, improved prosecution processes, integrity in administration, and enhanced access to justice.
On prison decongestion, the commissioner announced plans to promote alternative dispute resolution, community service, and timely legal advice to reduce the number of awaiting-trial inmates.
Read also:
- Tinubu wades into Kano State APC crisis as campaign DG dumps party
- Kano State Assembly approves N215.3B Supplementary Budget
- Canada, UK, UNICEF hand over 55 climate-resilient facilities to Kano State Government
“Our aim is to support a humane justice system that ensures minor offenders are rehabilitated without unnecessary incarceration,” he said.
Maude also promised closer collaboration with the judiciary, security agencies, and civil society organizations to strengthen justice delivery and public trust.
He reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to providing sound legal guidance to the executive arm of government in line with constitutional provisions, adding that all legal advice and representations will be executed “professionally and in accordance with equity, natural justice, and fair hearing.”
The commissioner concluded by assuring journalists of continuous engagement, noting that “an informed society is a just society.”
