ASABA/Nigeria: Delta State’s Acting Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme, has reiterated the government’s dedication to upholding a free and independent judiciary. Speaking during a special court session marking the opening of the 2024/2025 legal year on Monday in Asaba, Onyeme emphasised the state’s pioneering role in implementing judicial autonomy.
“As a government, we have placed a high premium on maintaining a free and independent judiciary. It is worth noting that Delta State was among the first in the federation to pass the Judiciary (Financial) Autonomy Law, which came into effect under the leadership of our Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, then Speaker of the State House of Assembly,” Onyeme remarked.
He further highlighted the state’s commitment to ensuring that the law is fully implemented, adding that necessary measures have been taken to create an enabling environment for judges and legal personnel. “We have also provided the necessary tools and infrastructure to ensure that our judges and other judicial officers can work in conducive conditions that enhance the functionality of their offices,” he said.
In congratulating the Chief Judge of Delta State and the wider legal community on the commencement of the new legal year, Onyeme called for timely and efficient administration of justice. “All parties involved—the Bar, the Bench, and the security agencies—must ensure that the wheels of justice turn smoothly and swiftly. We must remember that justice delayed is justice denied,” he urged.
Onyeme also stressed the importance of the rule of law in building a prosperous society, calling on all stakeholders to work together to uphold justice. “Our society can only thrive when the rule of law prevails. I trust that, with God’s help, you will continue to discharge your duties without fear or favour,” he said, wishing the judiciary a productive legal year.
Earlier, the Chief Judge of Delta State, Justice Theresa Diai, reflected on the significance of the legal year opening ceremony, noting that it provides an opportunity for self-appraisal and the dissemination of the judiciary’s achievements over the past year. She also praised the Delta State Government for its unwavering support of the judiciary.
“The Judiciary owes a debt of gratitude to His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, for his commitment, which has led to the completion and commissioning of new court buildings in the Asaba Judicial Division,” Justice Diai said. She further acknowledged the provision of 20 Toyota Prado SUVs for High Court judges as part of the government’s efforts to support the judiciary.
As part of the legal year opening activities, a special thanksgiving Mass was held at Emmanuel The Saviour Catholic Church, Asaba. During the service, Acting Governor Onyeme urged judges to discharge their duties with the fear of God, stressing the importance of spiritual guidance in their work. “You must depend on God in discharging this sacred responsibility. The Word of God is your greatest defence against error and sin,” Onyeme said.
The Bishop of Issele-Uku Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Michael Elue, commended the judiciary for acknowledging the impartiality of God in their work. “In democracy, it is the judiciary that ensures both majority and minority rights are protected by law,” the Bishop said, urging judges to seek God’s guidance in their quest for justice.
