Judicial reform: CJN recommends pilgrimage for Judges

As part of the Federal Government’s effort to reposition the Judiciary devoid of corruption, Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Walter Onnoghen, has recommended that judges at all strata should indulge in pilgrimage operations to the Holy lands as this will shape their minds in the discharge of their duties.

The CJN said this on Wednesday when the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission, Rev. Tor Ujah, paid him a working visit. According to the CJN, the court is the temple of justice and the legal profession comes out from the church which pre-supposes God’s pronouncement on his creation.

He, however, admonished Christians to live a life that is reflective of true followers of Christ.
The CJN further affirmed that Christian pilgrimage to the Holy Land is a worthwhile experience that every Christian who is spiritually alert should be encouraged to do.

Uja had earlier said that the Commission is prepared to commence a special pilgrimage to Israel for Judges and Magistrates next year, as part of its contribution to changing the face of the capable Judiciary in Nigeria.

He explained that such a specialised pilgrimage would help to bring the members of the bench together as the platform would enable them to pray corporately in the Holy Land.
He stated that the Commission has perfected moves to redefine the whole concept of pilgrimage so that it is not just centred on activities but spiritually impacting.

Uja also informed the CJN that time has come for the church to take developmental role and play active support in the advancement of Christian pilgrimage in Nigeria.

Meanwhile, the NCPC boss described the Judiciary as the most stable arm of Nigeria democratic process. According to him; “the Nigerian society owes the Judiciary a vote of confidence and a reward of its labour over the years”. He stated further that Nigeria owes the Judiciary a depth of added service.

He affirmed: “If the Judiciary is strengthened, this nation will be better for it.”
Uja told the CJN that he would like the church to intensify prayer for the judiciary.
He said, “It is important for the church to set up a prayer trust to strengthen the judiciary. We believe that under you, the judiciary will grow from strength to strength.”