Writing By Teddy Daniel; Editing By Yusuf Zubairu
A Judge of the Upper Customary Court, Kaduna State, Mr. Danladi Douglas, has pledged to sustain prompt and impartial dispensation of justice following his reassignment to Kafanchan.
Mr. Douglas made the commitment while speaking shortly after receiving a Community Peace Builder Award in recognition of his service as a judicial officer at the Upper Customary Court, Television, Kaduna.
The judge, who described justice delivery as the core mandate of the court, said his primary responsibility remains adjudicating both civil and criminal matters with fairness and within stipulated timelines.
He explained that civil cases before the court often involve issues such as inheritance, land disputes, matrimonial matters, as well as landlord-tenant disagreements, while criminal cases deal with offences brought before the court.
Mr. Douglas emphasized that the essence of judicial work is impartiality.
“A judge is an unbiased arbiter who listens to facts, weighs them against the law, and delivers judgment accordingly.and the bulk of our work is justice dispensation, and that is what we will continue to uphold,” he said.
On his new posting, the jurist noted that while operational environments may differ, his focus would remain on ensuring cases are concluded within the prescribed timeframe.
He added that most matters should not exceed six months, stressing that discipline, commitment, and firm control of court proceedings are critical to avoiding unnecessary delays.
Speaking on public concerns about the role of the judiciary in Nigeria’s electoral process, Mr. Douglas reaffirmed confidence in the system, noting that courts remain the appropriate avenue for resolving disputes.
He explained that the principle of fair hearing is fundamental, allowing all parties the opportunity to present their cases before judgment is delivered.
According to him, justice must serve not only the complainant and the defendant but also the society at large.
“Justice is threefold. It must be done to the parties involved and must also be seen to have been done by society,” he stated.
On the increasing recourse to courts in election-related matters, the judge said aggrieved parties have a constitutional right to seek redress and pursue appeals where necessary.
He, however, advised political actors to exercise restraint and accept outcomes where no clear injustice has occurred.
“Leadership is ultimately determined by God. Where there is no injustice, individuals should accept the outcome and move forward. But where there is a genuine grievance, the court remains open,” he added.
Mr. Douglas assured Nigerians that despite challenges within the judiciary, the system remains committed to upholding justice and the rule of law.
In his remark, the convener of the Peace Center, Mr. Donald Enaye, explained that the awardee is a disciplined and selfless individual whose track record is worthy of emulation.
He emphasize that the peace center will continue to recognize and acknowledge exemplary leadership skills of Worthy individuals in the society for peace and development of the country.
