By Eke Ojim
The question of eradicating violence against women and girls in the country again came to the fore with Chief Justice Olukayode Ariwoola encouraging women judges in Nigeria to keep enforcing existing laws promptly and consistently.
Judicial officers have often been urged to proactively handle cases of violence against women and girls and the CJN during the 2023 biennial national conference/general meeting of the National Association of Women Judges, Nigeria (NAWJN), noted that beyond building their capacity, the Women Judges should blend ideas on how to eradicate violence against women and girls in the country.
Earlier, NAWJN President, the Hon. Justice Jummai Hannatu Sankey, acknowledged that the statistical breakdown of women Judges in the country is impressive. She asserted, however, that rather than relent, women should strive to excel in their various areas of influence.
Delivering her welcome address at the event held at National Judicial Institute (NJI) in Abuja, with the theme: “The Woman Judge in the 21st Century”, Sankey dwelt on the pressing need to end violence against women and children in society. She assured participants that the conference would better equip them to overcome challenges in the line of duty as judges, wives, mothers, daughters, sisters, and leaders serving humanity.
On a hearty note, the NAWJN President expressed delight that “in the judiciary, women are closer than other arms of government to the 35% affirmative action advocated.
It is worthy of note that between February and May 2023, four states in Nigeria welcomed female Chief Judges.
Admitting that the number of female judges, heads of courts, and judiciary officials at the state and federal levels has been praiseworthy so far, she advocated for the appointment of more female judges to leadership positions in the judiciary to enhance gender inclusivity.
“Currently, the percentage of women judges in Nigeria is 32% just as the number of judicial officials, and heads of courts has also been encouraging. “Statistics disclose that in the judiciary, women are closer than other arms of government to the 35% affirmative action advocated. It is apparent that gender inclusivity in the composition and leadership of the bench at all levels has been embraced in the Nigerian judiciary,” Justice Sankey said.
