On Friday, September 2, 2022, Chief J-K Gadzama SAN, MFR, OFR, the President of Vox Populi Foundation, was privileged to deliver the Valedictory Speech, on behalf of the Body of Senior Advocates of Nigeria (BoSAN), in honour of the retiring Chief Judge of Adamawa State, Hon. Justice Nathan Musa.

Chief Gadzama, during his speech, noted that Hon. Justice Nathan Musa reflects the essential qualities of a good judge as professed by Socrates donkey years ago. “Four things belong to a judge: To hear courteously; to answer wisely; to consider soberly, and to decide impartially.’ Chief Gadzama itemized, further reflecting that Hon Justice Nathan Musa reflects those very characteristics he had just listed.

 

Pouring encomiums, Chief Gadzama noted that as a Judge, Hon Justice Nathan Musa demonstrated clarity and precision of thought, as well as the capacity to use the law as a tool for substantial justice rather than dwell on technicalities which pose as a hindrance to the rights of the aggrieved.

The renowned Jurist, Hon. Justice Nathan Musa was admitted into the Bar in June 1982. He joined the then Gongola State Government as a State Counsel Il after completing his NYSC in 1983. In 1986, he joined the Gongola State Judiciary as Chief Magistrate/Upper Area Court Judge, serving in Michika, Takum, and Numan before being promoted to the position of Deputy Chief Registrar, High Court of Justice Yola in 1993. In 1996, he was appointed Secretary of the Adamawa State Judicial Service Commission. As a result of His Lordship’s commitment. hard work, honesty, loyalty, and dedication to duty. Hon. Justice Nathan Musa held three offices at the same time in 1996: he was Chief Magistrate Administration, Deputy Chief Registrar Personnel, and Secretary Judicial Service Commission, earning him the moniker “THREE IN ONE.” He was after that elevated to the High Court Bench in December 2003 and rose to become to Chief Judge in 2021 having earlier served in an acting capacity.

Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama commended His Lordship on his ability to promote discipline in the state judiciary during his tenure and for consistently advocating for legal practitioners, whether at the Bar or on the Bench, to maintain the highest standards in order to earn public trust and preserve the integrity of our profession. Chief Gadzama congratulated His Lordship on his successful retirement and wished him happy healthy life in retirement.

“We pray that God bless you with a long and happy life, overall wellness, and a cheerful disposition for the rest of your life”. Chief Joe-Kyari prayed.

Read the full Speech below