Zulum Unveils Bold Justice Reform Agenda: Promises Legal Overhaul, Digital Revolution in Borno State
By Abdullahi Inuwa
In a sweeping declaration set to redefine justice delivery in Borno State, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has pledged to overhaul outdated laws and drive a digital transformation in the state’s justice sector before the end of his tenure.
Speaking at the official launch of the Digital Case Management System at the Ministry of Justice, held at the Musa Usman Secretariat in Maiduguri, Governor Zulum vowed to modernise the legal framework—especially the penal code—stating that many current laws no longer provide adequate deterrence.
“Most of the provisions of the laws, especially the penal code, need to be reviewed. The punishment in the law today cannot offer the needed deterrence. Before the end of my tenure, insha Allah, Borno will have laws aligned with today’s realities,” Zulum declared to thunderous applause.
The high-profile event also saw the unveiling of the Ministry’s new logo, mission statement, core values, and an e-library, symbolizing a bold new chapter in Borno’s pursuit of justice innovation.
Governor Zulum further reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the digital transformation of the legal system, praising the new case management system as a tool to eliminate delays and raise the standard of legal practice.
“This is not just about digitising files; it’s about transforming justice delivery to be faster, more accountable, and transparent,” he said.
He extended heartfelt commendation to State Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Kashim Zannah, for pioneering digital innovation in the judiciary five years ago, making Borno the first state in Nigeria to embrace such reforms. Zulum also lauded Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Barrister Hauwa Abubakar, for her visionary leadership and reformist zeal.
Barrister Abubakar, in her address, described the occasion as a milestone in institutional reform and a testament to the Ministry’s evolving identity.
“This unveiling is not just symbolic. It represents our renewed mission to deliver justice that is timely, fair, and people-centred,” she stated.
Chief Judge Zannah urged the full digitisation of state laws for public accessibility, highlighting Governor Zulum’s unmatched commitment to rule of law.
“In my career, I have never seen a government so deliberate in ensuring every agency operates under a legal framework. These laws must now be made digitally accessible to the public,” Justice Zannah added.
Zulum also promised enhanced staff welfare, training opportunities, and scholarship support for lawyers pursuing higher education.
“I am particularly proud of our female lawyers. Anyone willing to pursue further studies will receive my support,” he assured.
With legal reforms underway and digital tools already in motion, Borno State may well be writing the next chapter in justice delivery across Nigeria.

Comments
Post a Comment