Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, on Wednesday swore in four judges of the Delta State High Court and two judges of the Delta State Customary Court of Appeal, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to judicial independence and sustained reforms in the justice sector.
Those sworn in as high court judges are Otite Akporuaro, Sam-Oligida Jereoma, Ukuli Irene, and Adamidenyo Benjamin, while Ojeikere Onome and Okah Ovuorieroro were sworn in as judges of the Delta State Customary Court of Appeal.
Speaking during the event held at the Government House, Asaba,
Gov. Oborevwori said the appointments were carried out in accordance with Sections 271(2) and 281(2) of the 1999 Constitution, stressing that the process followed their nominations by the Delta State Judicial Service Commission and approval granted by the National Judicial Council (NJC).
Congratulating the new judges, Gov. Oborevwori said their elevation to the bench was a vote of confidence in their legal knowledge, sound judgment, integrity, professionalism, and discipline, urging them to uphold the highest ethical standards in the discharge of their duties.
He warned that public confidence in the judiciary must be jealously guarded, noting that “when the people lose confidence in the ability of the judiciary to dispense justice transparently and without fear or favour, they may resort to self-help, which is an invitation to chaos and anarchy.”
The governor reminded judges of the weight of their responsibilities, stating that “it is often said that when a case is being adjudicated upon, it is neither the plaintiff nor the defendant that is on trial, but the judge. Justice must not only be done; it must be seen to be done.”
Read Also:
- Gov. Oborevwori condoles Wilfred Ndidi over father’s death
- Gov. Oborevwori condoles Warri Catholic Diocese over Bishop Afareha’s death
- Gov. Oborevwori flags off N59.7bn Uromi Junction Flyover
Gov. Oborevwori highlighted key reforms undertaken by his administration to strengthen the justice delivery system, including the construction of judges’ quarters, renovation of magistrates’ and customary courts, digitization of Delta State laws, deployment of virtual court hearing facilities, and the establishment of the Delta State Criminal Information System for efficient criminal profiling and case management.
Responding on behalf of the newly sworn-in judges, Justice Ojeikere expressed gratitude to God and appreciation to the governor for his consistent support for the judiciary.
She thanked the Delta State House of Assembly, the Judicial Service Commission led by the chief judge of the state, the president of the Customary Court of Appeal, senior members of the bench, as well as families and well-wishers for their support.
Justice Ojeikere assured the government and people of Delta State that they would discharge their duties with courage, fairness, and integrity.
“We solemnly pledge to use the offices entrusted to us to do justice to all manner of person, without fear or favour, to the glory of Almighty God,” she said.
