By MUHAMMAD ADAM

The Grand Khadi, Adamawa Sharia Court of Appeal, Usman Girei, has described as “illegal” the 10 per cent levy imposed by judges to superintend sharing of estate among heirs of deceased in the state.

Girei gave the clarifications during a special prayer and admonishment session for newly appointed Magistrates and other stakeholders in the administration of justice, on Sunday in Yola.

The event was organised by the Muslim Lawyers’ Association of Nigeria (MULAN).

Girei, represented by Khadi Zubairu Modibbo of the Sharia Court of Appeal, said the 10 per cent levy imposed by Judges on inheritance was repugnant to the provisions of the law.

He said that fees for filling such cases were also illegal.

“It has become a tradition by Judges of the Shari’ah Courts in Adamawa to deduct 10 per cent on any estate share among families of the deceased.

“I want to make it clear that the deduction of 10 per cent by judges while sharing estate ov the family of the deceased is illegal, even the payment of filing fees for such cases is illegal,” he said.

Gerei admonished the newly inaugurated Magistrates to shun corruption and acts capable of exposing the Court to disrepute.

“You are to dispense justice without fear or favour, and ensure justice for all irrespective of social status and other affiliations.

“You should remain loyal to your Oaths of Office. Always bear in mind that one day you will come under scrutiny over the trust bestowed on you.

“As judges; strive for more knowledge as the job is knowledge driven, you should be dynamic because some issues require wisdom and fact to be addressed,” he said.

In his remarks, Ibrahim Mustapha, MULAN’s Chairman in the state, said the event was designed to expose judges to the rudiments of justice service delivery in compliance with Islamic teachings.

While calling on Muslim faithful to support the organisation to enable it to enhance its operations, Mustapha urged its members to ensure prompt payment of their checkup dues.

Also speaking, Alhaji Yakubu Sambo, called for the reconstitution of the Panel of Sharia Court of Appeal in the state.

Sambo said the measure was imperative to fast track speedy dispensation of cases in the Shari’ah Courts across the state. (NAN)

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