Governor Kashim Shettima of Borno State has charged judges and lawyers in the state to shun corruption and expedite efforts in the administration of justice to the common man.

The governor also urged the judiciary to avoid delay in trial of criminal cases so as to decongest the prison through speedy dispensation of justice.

Shettima  stated this on Thursday while presiding over the swearing  in ceremony of the three newly appointed Grand Khadis of the Sharia Court of Appeal of Borno State, who took their oaths of office and allegiance administered by the state chief judge, Justice Kashim Zanna at the Government House Council Chambers, Maiduguri.

The three Grand Khadis are Malam Abba Mohammed, Malam Mohammed Gambo Abubakar and Malam Usman Salihu Sakwa.

He called on the new judges to follow the footprints of the state chief judge, Justice Kashim Zanna whom he described as incorruptible.

The governor appealed to them to ensure that justice is given to the common man in the discharge of their duties, adding that he was impressed with the state judiciary and the chief judge for the judicial integrity Borno is known for nationwide.

Justice Kashim Zanna had earlier said that the screening process for the appointment of the three Grand Khadis was through interviews and tests , adding that the era has gone when Khadis are appointed based on godfathersm.

He said the state judicial council applied the new rule by the National Judicial Council for judges to pass through tests and interviews before being recommended to the  NJC for approval.

“Accordingly, in line with the requirements, the state judiciary established a standing committee of Ulamas and charged it with the simple responsibility of searching and vetting lawyers and judges for the purposes of character and knowledge to bridge the gap in the  litigation system as recommended constitutionally.’’