Some retired Lagos magistrates are reportedly struggling to survive on very small monthly pensions despite spending more than 20 years serving the state.
A lawyer has raised alarm over the dire circumstances facing retired Lagos magistrates, with some receiving as little as N23,000 monthly after spending more than two decades on the bench.
Bayo Akinlade said about 23 judges have retired from the state since 2013 with one or two more expected to step down before year’s end.
Even the least-served retired magistrate spent around 22 years handling criminal and civil cases across Lagos.
If each presided over an average 300 cases yearly, the group collectively managed over 60,000 matters involving billions of naira, with outcomes ranging from prison sentences to heavy fines.
Yet despite years of service, many struggle with basic needs including healthcare and housing.
Some waited two years after retirement before receiving any pension.
Those under contributory pension schemes get monthly payments as low as N23,000 depending on their individual arrangements.
Akinlade said the magistrates retired at Grade Level 16 and 17 but missed welfare and privileges available to senior officials elsewhere in government.
Serving judges lack proper health insurance, making the transition to retirement even tougher. Some still have young children and family responsibilities requiring support.
Nearly half the retired judges are women while male retirees face pressure to keep providing for families.
With over 18 million people in Lagos but fewer than 130 sitting magistrates, the system depends on these workers yet abandons them in old age, Akinlade argued.
He called on the state government to use its ongoing review of magistrates court laws to strengthen protections for retirees and those joining their ranks.
He urged the state and Nigerian Bar Association to show compassion and support those who gave years to serving Lagos.
COURTESY: Tori News
