Governor Caleb Mutfwang on Friday, January 23, 2026, administered the oath of office to six newly appointed High Court judges in a ceremony at the Victoria Gowon Auditorium, New Government House, Little Rayfield, Jos, underscoring the importance of judicial independence, integrity and the rule of law in the state’s democratic development.
The new judicial officers, Justices Maikai Andrawus, Kparbong Tongret Nanman, Nkwap Diane Ngummai, Mantu John Ishaku, Bature Gavou Musa and Mallam Kingsley Mangai, were formally inducted into office before a gathering of senior government officials, members of the bench and bar, and other dignitaries.
In his address to the newly sworn-in judges, Governor Mutfwang described the ceremony as a “significant milestone” in reinforcing democratic governance in Plateau State. He said the judiciary serves as “the last hope of the common man,” highlighting its crucial role in protecting citizens’ rights and maintaining social order.
“The quality, integrity, and independence of those entrusted with judicial authority largely determine the confidence of citizens in the justice system,” Mutfwang said, emphasising the need for the bench to function above reproach.
He congratulated the judges on their appointments, made on the recommendation of the National Judicial Council and in line with constitutional provisions, noting that the selections reflect their professional competence, dedication and integrity.
The governor urged the judges to carry out their duties with unwavering commitment to the Constitution and the dictates of their conscience, asserting that their decisions would have “far-reaching implications for society.”
“You are called upon not merely to dispense justice, but to do so guided always by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the dictates of your conscience,” he said, adding that their rulings would help “shape lives, resolve conflicts, preserve social order, and reinforce public trust in our democratic institutions.”
Beyond exhortations to uphold justice, Mutfwang reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the state’s judiciary within available resources. He pledged to improve judicial infrastructure and enhance welfare for judicial officers to facilitate the timely and efficient delivery of justice.
“We are determined to improve judicial infrastructure, enhance welfare, and support reforms that promote efficiency and the timely delivery of justice,” the governor said, stressing that these efforts are integral to strengthening the rule of law.
The governor also disclosed that the state government had cleared outstanding gratuity arrears owed to retired judges, describing the action as a sign of respect and recognition for those who had served with honour.
Speaking on behalf of their colleagues, Justice Maikai Andrawus pledged that the newly appointed judges would uphold the highest standards of professionalism and ensure the public interest remains central to their work. They promised to be guided strictly by the rule of law in all judicial proceedings.
The judges appointed hail from diverse parts of Plateau State, including Kanam, Langtang, Shendam, Riyom, Barkin Ladi and Bokkos local government areas, reflecting the judiciary’s commitment to geographic representation across the state.
