The Nigerian Senate, on Thursday, passed a bill seeking an increment in the salaries and allowances of judges at all levels, for second reading.

The bill was considered following a lead debate by the Deputy Majority Leader, Lola Ashiru.

Ashiru who represents Kwara South Senatorial District, said the executive bill will enhance the integrity of the judicial arm of government.

In his contribution, Tahir Monguno (APC, Borno North) said improved pay for judges would take their minds away from corruption.

“There is a need to bring up the remuneration of judicial officers, that has stagnated over the years. This will insulate judicial officers from corruption and give them the courage to deliver judgments that are just and fair,” Monguno said.

In his submission, Orji Kalu (APC, Abia North) said increasing the salaries of the judges is the right thing to do.

“No right-thinking Nigerian will think that it is right to keep the judiciary comfortable. I want to thank the executive for deeming it fit to increase the salaries of judges at all levels. We should not stop at the judiciary but look at other sectors of the economy,” he said.

Also speaking, Emmanuel Udende (APC, Benue North-East) noted that judges have not been able to do much in the past few years due to poor pay.

“For the past 15 years, judicial officers have remained on meagre salaries. When you interact with them as a lawyer, you will see their morale is dampened, and when morale is dampened, the work will be difficult,” he said.

END.