The Nigerian Senate has passed a bill seeking an increment in the salaries and allowances of judges at all levels, for second reading.

The bill was considered following a lead debate by the Deputy Majority Leader, Senator LOLA ASHIRU.

Senator ASHIRU said the executive bill will enhance the integrity of the judicial arm of government.

In his contribution, Senator TAHIR MONGUNO said improved pay for judges would take their minds away from corruption.

In his submission, Senator ORJI KALU said increasing the salaries of the judges is the right thing to do.

Also speaking, Senator EMMANUEL UDENDE noted that judges have not been able to do much in the past few years due to poor pay.

Even though the bill was unanimously embraced, some lawmakers canvassed that in the face of the current economic hardship, salaries/remuneration of Nigerians in other sectors be equally reviewed.

The bill was, thereafter, referred to the Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights, and Legal Matters to report back in four weeks.