Justice Ekaette Obot, the Chief Judge of Akwa Ibom State, recently highlighted a critical issue facing the judiciary: a significant shortage of staff. During her address at the opening session of the 2024/2025 Legal Year in Uyo, she noted that the last recruitment of judiciary staff took place 14 years ago, creating a growing gap in personnel that hampers the effective administration of justice. This lack of human resources poses a serious challenge, as the judiciary relies heavily on adequate staffing to meet its operational demands.
Obot pointed out that the judiciary’s ability to function effectively has been further undermined by financial difficulties stemming from the non-release of government funds throughout 2023. She urged the state government to ensure regular financial allocations to the judiciary, which are necessary for maintaining facilities and supporting judges and magistrates. The Chief Judge articulated a clear need for increased funding to remedy the situation, emphasizing that financial support is crucial for the judiciary to fulfill its mandate in the justice system.
The dire consequences of staff shortages were further emphasized by Obot, who reported that approximately 40 percent of the judiciary workforce has departed due to retirements and, in some instances, death, since the last recruitment in 2012. The trend is alarming, with 316 staff retiring in just the last two years, further exacerbating the issue. This exodus results in a loss of accumulated skills and experience, thereby weakening the overall competency of the judiciary in handling cases.
In response to this ongoing challenge, the judiciary has been forced to adopt temporary solutions, such as assigning single staff members to cover multiple roles and utilizing temporary workers. However, Justice Obot made it clear that these measures are not sustainable in the long term. The Chief Judge expressed hope for the incoming legal year, urging the governor to grant the judiciary special permission for recruitment to replenish its dwindling workforce. This action, she believes, is essential for maintaining efficient judicial operations.
Beyond staffing issues, Obot’s address also covered the state of correctional facilities, where she advocated for the educational advancement of inmates. She called for the implementation of proper educational programs to ensure that inmates receive essential primary and secondary education, along with necessary skills acquisition training. Such reform initiatives, according to Obot, are vital for the reintegration of inmates into society and can significantly reduce recidivism rates.
In a response to her concerns, Governor Umo Eno reiterated his commitment to fostering collaboration with the judiciary to facilitate the speedy administration of justice. Speaking during a service at Oua Iboe Church, Eno assured Justice Obot of his administration’s support for the judiciary, emphasizing the importance of working together to enhance the legal framework and resources available for effective judicial operations. The dialogue between the judiciary and the state government marks a hopeful step toward addressing the pressing challenges facing the Akwa Ibom State judiciary.
