The Abia state Chief Judge, Justice Onuoha Ogwe has charged the magistrates of mobile courts inaugurated by the state government to try violators of lockdown order to hand non-custodial punishment to offenders, directing that they should impose fines or send offenders to perform community services.
ABN TV reports that Justice Ogwe disclosed this while Inaugurating the courts which are to cover the three zones of the State.
He also disclosed that mobile court is not a new court in itself but meant to handle cases arising as a result of the coronavirus in the state especially movement of people.
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According to him, the focus should be on non-custodial sentences, stressing that the Courts should concentrate on those who breach the state’s COVID 19 regulations.
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According to a statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to governor Ikpeazu, Onyebuchi Ememanka on Tuesday, to that effect, he charged the Magistrates of the Mobile Courts to impose reasonable fines or Community Service on offenders as the essence of government in setting up the Courts is to ensure that government laws are respected.
Justice Ogwe implored the Magistrates of the Court to be sensitive and patriotic as well as to keep an eye on their support staff to ensure that they do not make corrupt arrangements.
The Chief Judge who reminded them that they were chosen because of their credibility also told them to pay into the State Government accounts all revenues realized.
Responding on behalf of the other Magistrates, His Worship, Lawrence Okite Esq of Ohafia zone thanked the Chief Judge for finding them fit to serve and promised to discharge their responsibilities to the best of their abilities and in line with the aspirations of the State Government.
His Worship, Emmanuel Ukaegbu is in charge of Aba zone while His Worship, Chuks Nwankpa is in charge of Umuahia zone.
The Honorable Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Abia State, Uche Ihediwa Esq, and the Secretary to Government, Barrister Chris Ezem were at the inauguration.
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