The Chairman of the Police Service Commission (PSC), DIG Hashimu Argungu (rtd), has reiterated the Commission’s unwavering commitment to strengthening collaboration between Nigeria’s policing institutions and the judiciary to uphold the rights of citizens and ensure that justice is both delivered and perceived to be served.
Speaking through the Commission’s Head of Press and Public Relations, Mr. Ikechukwu Ani, at the 2025 Gabriel Adikwu Annual Lecture in honour of Justice Paul Adamu Galumje, retired Supreme Court Justice and current Honourable Federal Commissioner at the PSC, DIG Argungu emphasized that such collaboration is essential to fostering public trust and preserving democratic ideals.
The event, held on Saturday, May 17 in Yola, Adamawa State, served as a platform to reflect on the judiciary’s role in promoting justice and national unity. DIG Argungu extolled Justice Galumje’s career, describing it as a legacy of integrity, fairness, and commitment to equity.
“Justice Galumje’s judicial service was defined by courage, sound legal reasoning, and a deep concern for unity and justice,” Argungu noted. “His life and work continue to inspire those of us in public and security service to uphold the rule of law and accountability in our responsibilities.”
He also acknowledged that Justice Galumje’s wealth of experience remains invaluable to the Commission’s oversight responsibilities over the Nigeria Police Force. “His contributions are not taken for granted,” he said.
This year’s lecture theme, “The Law, The Court, and The People,” was described by the PSC Chairman as both timely and critical for the continued sustenance of justice, democracy, and the rule of law. “It serves as a reminder that the legal system must exist to serve the people, defend their rights, and uphold their dignity—without fear or favour,” he said.
Argungu commended the organisers for fostering dialogue and reflection, urging participants to continue advancing reforms within Nigeria’s justice system. “May the legacy of Justice Galumje inspire generations of legal professionals to come,” he added.
In his remarks, Justice Galumje observed that the theme could not have come at a more critical time, given the growing public concerns about judicial credibility, especially in election-related rulings.
He noted that while the law and the courts are essential instruments of justice, their legitimacy rests on fair interpretation and enforcement. “If laws are unjustly interpreted or applied, the social contract collapses, and anarchy prevails,” he warned.
Justice Galumje also expressed concern over the increasing trend of public criticism of judicial decisions based on hearsay or misinterpretation. While acknowledging the right to critique, he advised that such criticisms should be informed by a proper understanding of the legal reasoning behind judgments.
“The law is not defined by public opinion,” he stated. “It is what the judge declares in his judgment that becomes the law.”
Highlighting the growth of the legal profession and judicial institutions in the North East geopolitical zone, Justice Galumje called for sustained support for the Gabriel Adikwu Annual Lecture from regional governments to ensure its continuity and impact.
The event drew participation from legal scholars, judiciary officers, law students, and public officials, all united in celebrating the enduring impact of Justice Galumje’s contributions to Nigeria’s legal and judicial landscape.