Supreme Court Justice Amina Augie Retires After Reaching Age 70
Justice Augie, the sixth female justice of the Supreme Court, officially concluded her judicial career on Thursday during a valedictory service held in her honor in Abuja.
In her farewell address, the retired judge emphasized the need for the Supreme Court to concentrate on policy matters and avoid entanglement in politics. She also advocated for a constitutional amendment to limit the number of cases that can reach the Supreme Court on appeal, with the aim of reducing the workload of the justices. Augie argued that such an amendment would enhance the overall efficiency of the Nigerian judicial system.
She stated, "Supreme Court justices cannot effectively address policy issues when overwhelmed with an excessive caseload. As highlighted by Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, during the special session marking the commencement of the 2022/2023 legal year, the way forward is a constitutional amendment to restrict the circumstances under which appeals can reach the Supreme Court."
Addressing the 10th National Assembly, Justice Augie urged prompt action to amend the constitution and improve the functioning of the country's courts.
The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), expressed the Federal Government's commitment to bolstering the Supreme Court by meeting the constitutionally prescribed number of justices. He also promised improved conditions of service and remuneration for judicial officers at all levels.
Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, hailed Justice Augie as "a rare gem and unblemished symbol of humility and piety" and praised her contributions to jurisprudence development.
Justice Amina Augie, born on September 3, 1953, graduated in law from the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University) and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1978. Her retirement leaves the Supreme Court with 11 justices.
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