ASAABA/Nigeria: Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has emphasised that judicial integrity and impartiality are critical to the maintenance of peace, law and order, warning that a loss of public confidence in the courts could encourage self-help and undermine democratic stability.
The governor spoke on Wednesday in Asaba during the swearing-in ceremony of six newly appointed judges for the Delta State High Court and the Delta State Customary Court of Appeal, where he charged members of the Bench to uphold the highest standards of probity, courage, fairness and professionalism in the discharge of their constitutional duties.
Those sworn in as judges of the Delta State High Court are Justice Otite Jonah Akpobaro, Justice Jereoma Sam-Oligida, Justice Irene Boeye Ukuli and Justice Otome Benjamin Adamidenyo. Justice Bridget Onome Ojeikere and Justice Stella Ovuorieroro Okah were sworn in as Justices of the Delta State Customary Court of Appeal.
Governor Oborevwori said the stability of any democratic society rests heavily on a credible, transparent and independent judiciary, stressing that justice must not only be done but must also be seen to be done.
According to him, only a judiciary that operates without fear or favour can sustain public trust, guarantee justice for all citizens and preserve social harmony in the state and across the nation.
He explained that the appointments were made strictly in line with Sections 271(2) and 281(2) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), which empower state governors to appoint judges on the recommendation of the National Judicial Council.
The governor disclosed that the Delta State Judicial Service Commission first nominated qualified candidates, after which the National Judicial Council subjected them to rigorous screening before approving those found suitable for appointment.
Congratulating the newly sworn-in judges, Oborevwori described their elevation as a clear vote of confidence in their legal competence, integrity, discipline and professionalism.
“As you assume this noble responsibility as members of the Bench, you must continue to demonstrate the same commitment to hard work, excellence and high ethical standards that earned you this appointment,” the governor said.
He cautioned the judges to resist all forms of temptation capable of compromising judicial independence, noting that during adjudication, it is often the judge, rather than the litigants, who is ultimately on trial in the court of public opinion.
Governor Oborevwori reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening justice delivery in Delta State, describing the swearing-in as another milestone in the ongoing effort to build a judiciary that is functional, fast, fair and accessible.
He said the appointment of additional judges would help decongest courts, reduce delays in the dispensation of justice and bring justice closer to the people, particularly residents of rural communities.
The governor outlined several reforms undertaken by his administration to support the judiciary, including the approval for the construction of judges’ quarters across the state, renovation of magistrates’ and customary courts, and the digitisation of the Laws of Delta State, now accessible on the state government’s official website.
He also disclosed that virtual court hearing facilities have been installed in High Courts in Asaba and in correctional centres in Warri, Ogwashi-Uku and Sapele, supported by solar installations to ensure uninterrupted proceedings.
According to him, plans are underway to introduce automated court recording systems aimed at improving accuracy and speed in judicial proceedings.
On broader justice sector reforms, Oborevwori said the state had introduced the Delta State Criminal Information System, a centralised digital platform for criminal profiling, case management and offender tracking using biometric data, including fingerprints and DNA.
He explained that the initiative would enhance public safety, strengthen accountability and support crime prevention, while complementing virtual court hearings conducted directly from correctional centres.
The governor further announced that, for the first time in the history of the state, a career civil servant, Mr. Omamuzo Erebe, the Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Justice, attained the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria in 2025, describing the achievement as a testament to the quality of Delta State’s public service.
Responding on behalf of the newly sworn-in judges, Justice Bridget Onome Ojeikere expressed gratitude to Governor Oborevwori for his support and respect for judicial independence, pledging that the judges would discharge their duties with integrity, diligence and without fear or favour.
The ceremony was attended by top government officials, members of the legislature, the judiciary and other key stakeholders across the state.
