ASABA/Nigeria: Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has delivered a compelling message to judges across Nigeria, urging them to uphold the principles of fair hearing, equity, and good conscience in the execution of their duties.
The governor emphasized the importance of ensuring justice for all by maintaining personal integrity and avoiding any semblance of greed.
His remarks were made during the swearing-in ceremony of Justice Catherine Ojugbana-Orishedere as President of the Customary Court of Appeal, along with seven other judges from the State Judiciary, held in Asaba on Thursday.
The newly appointed judges for the High Court were Aforkeya Obomejero, Okeleke Ifeanyi Samuel, Umuko Aboyowa Godwin, Ossai Ngozi Rita, and Adolor Onorieukuhakpo Sunny, Gbakeji Emakpor Michael and Uraih Ifeanyi Tracy Patricia were sworn in as judges for the Customary Court of Appeal.
Governor Oborevwori commended Justice Ojugbana-Orishedere for her recommendation by the National Judicial Council, appointment, and subsequent confirmation by the State House of Assembly, stating that it affirmed her competence, capacity, and suitability for the esteemed position. He acknowledged her 23 years of service, which he believed validated her credentials as a distinguished jurist and a devoted public servant.
In his address, Governor Oborevwori encouraged both Justice Ojugbana-Orishedere and the newly sworn-in judges to uphold the values of hard work, sincerity, dedication, consistency, and excellence that had earned them their elevated positions. He emphasized the importance of delivering judgments without bias, ensuring that justice is not only served but also perceived to be served. The governor stressed the significance of basing justice on timeless principles such as fair hearing, equity, good conscience, common sense, and the appropriate punishment for the guilty. He urged the judges to maintain personal integrity and resist the allure of greed.
Governor Oborevwori expressed confidence in the capabilities of the new judges, believing they would live up to the expectations placed upon them. He implored them to serve as exemplary role models to their subordinates, peers, and professional colleagues, leaving behind a legacy of courage, integrity, and righteousness.
In response, Justice Ojugbana-Orishedere expressed gratitude to Governor Oborevwori for considering them worthy to serve in the state judiciary. She assured the governor of the judges’ unwavering commitment to fulfilling their duties as outlined in the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
