Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has swore in six newly appointed judges for the Delta State High Court and the Customary Court of Appeal, explaining that the exercise was a deliberate step to strengthen the judiciary, protect public trust in the justice system, and preserve peace and order in the state.
Speaking during the ceremony in Asaba, the governor warned that any erosion of confidence in the judiciary poses a serious danger to society, stressing that when citizens lose faith in the courts, they may resort to self-help, a development capable of breeding chaos and anarchy.
According to Oborevwori, the swearing-in of the judges was necessary to reinforce the independence, credibility and effectiveness of the judiciary, which he described as the backbone of democracy and the last hope of the common man.
“Without a strong, transparent and impartial judiciary, peace, law and order cannot be sustained. Justice must not only be done, it must be seen to be done. This is why we are strengthening our courts and ensuring they are properly staffed,” the governor said.
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, while Justice Bridget Onome Ojeikere and Justice Stella Ovuorieroro Okah were sworn in as Justices of the Delta State Customary Court of Appeal.
Governor Oborevwori explained that the appointments were made in strict compliance with Sections 271(2) and 281(2) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), following due process that involved nominations by the Delta State Judicial Service Commission and screening and approval by the National Judicial Council (NJC).
He said the addition of the judges would help decongest the courts, reduce delays in the administration of justice, and bring justice closer to the people, especially those in rural communities.
“The swearing-in of these judges is part of our broader commitment to building a judiciary that is fast, fair, accessible and responsive to the needs of the people,” he noted.
The governor congratulated the judges on their elevation, describing it as a vote of confidence in their integrity, competence and professionalism, while urging them to uphold the highest ethical standards and resist all forms of pressure or temptation that could compromise judicial independence.
He reaffirmed his administration’s support for the judiciary, listing ongoing reforms such as the construction of judges’ quarters, renovation of courts, digitisation of the Laws of Delta State, installation of virtual court facilities, and plans to introduce automated court recording systems.
Responding on behalf of the newly sworn-in judges, Justice Bridget Onome Ojeikere thanked the governor for his respect for judicial independence and assured that the judges would dispense justice with courage, fairness and without fear or favour.
The ceremony attracted top government officials, lawmakers, judicial officers and other stakeholders in the justice sector.
