Governor Radda Charges Newly Sworn in High Court Judges to Uphold Integrity
Katsina State Governor, Dikko Radda, has sworn in three new judges of the State High Court, urging them to uphold justice with integrity, fairness, and reverence for God while discharging their duties.
The newly appointed judges are Maryam Umaru Abdullahi, Shamsuddeen Abdurrahman Ƴammama, and Abubakar Muhammad Dikko.
The swearing-in ceremony, held on Monday at the Government House in Katsina, drew dignitaries from the executive, legislative, and judicial arms of government, alongside traditional rulers, members of the State Executive Council, and families of the appointees.
Governor Radda described the occasion as “a remarkable milestone in the state’s judicial history,” adding that the appointments would strengthen the judiciary and enhance the timely delivery of justice.
He praised the State Judicial Service Commission for conducting what he termed a transparent and merit-based selection process that produced credible and competent appointees.
“Today, we are swearing in three new judges of the Katsina State High Court. This is a significant step forward for our judiciary because it increases our capacity and strengthens the administration of justice in our state.
“I congratulate you and wish you God’s guidance in performing your responsibilities. This oath of office and act of allegiance are enough for all of us in the executive, legislature, and judiciary to reflect deeply on the responsibilities we bear,” Radda said.
The governor advised the judges to view their new positions as sacred trusts before God and the people of Katsina State.
“After some time, maybe a month, I advise that we all go back and read this oath again. It will remind us that whatever we do, God is watching and aware of all our actions,” he said.
Radda reaffirmed the judiciary’s vital role as the last hope of the common man and urged the new judges to serve with diligence and sincerity.
“Everyone looks up to you for justice — both those who have a voice and those who do not, especially the latter. I believe your position will guide you to the right path if you perform your duties with diligence and sincerity,” he said.
He assured that his administration would continue to support both the judiciary and legislature to maintain effective collaboration among the three arms of government.
“We will continue to give full support to the judiciary and the legislature so that we can maintain harmony among the three arms of government. There is nothing we can achieve as a state without a strong and effective judicial system. The judiciary remains the backbone of peace, order, and justice in our society,” he noted.
Radda also underscored the importance of timely dispensation of justice, warning that prolonged cases could erode public confidence in the courts.
“As they say, time waits for no one. It is important that we dispense justice promptly and fairly so that we can build the kind of society we all aspire to — one anchored on justice, peace, and unity.
“On this note, I congratulate you, wish you well, and also pray for peace and unity in our state. May Almighty Allah guide all of us and strengthen the bond of unity that exists in Katsina,” he added.
The new judges bring diverse professional backgrounds and decades of experience to the bench.
Justice Maryam Abdullahi, a graduate of the University of Abuja with advanced degrees from the United Kingdom, previously served as State Solicitor, Head of the Notary Public Unit at the Supreme Court, and Deputy Director at the National Judicial Institute.
Justice Shamsuddeen Ƴammama, an alumnus of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, holds two Master’s degrees, including one in Oil and Gas Law from the United Kingdom. He has worked in academia, the National Judicial Institute, and the National Assembly.
Justice Abubakar Dikko, a graduate of the University of Abuja with a Master’s degree in Law, served for over two decades at the Supreme Court of Nigeria, where he rose to become Head of Litigation and Research Assistant to a former Chief Justice of Nigeria.
