Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has warned that the erosion of public confidence in the judiciary poses a grave threat to peace, law and order. He made this statement during the swearing-in of six newly appointed judges for the Delta State High Court and the Customary Court of Appeal in Asaba.
“When citizens lose faith in the justice system, they may resort to self-help, a situation capable of plunging society into chaos and anarchy,” Oborevwori said, urging members of the Bench to uphold the highest standards of probity, fairness, courage and impartiality in the discharge of their constitutional duties.
The governor emphasized that the stability of any democratic society rests heavily on a credible, transparent and independent judiciary, noting that justice must not only be done but must also be seen to be done. “Only a judiciary that acts without fear or favour can sustain public trust, guarantee justice for all, and preserve social harmony in the state and the nation,” he said.
The newly sworn-in judges are Justice Otite Jonah Akpobaro, Justice Jereoma Sam-Oligida, Justice Irene Boeye Ukuli, Justice Otome Benjamin Adamidenyo, Justice Bridget Onome Ojeikere, and Justice Stella Ovuorieroro Okah.
Oborevwori disclosed 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 (NJC).
The governor congratulated the newly sworn-in judges, describing their elevation as a vote of confidence in their legal knowledge, integrity, professionalism and discipline. “As you begin this new journey as privileged members of the Bench, I expect you to uphold the same spirit of hard work, commitment, excellence and high ethical standards that qualified you for this noble office,” he said.
Oborevwori reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the justice delivery system in the state, outlining several reforms and interventions, including the construction of judges’ quarters, renovation of magistrates’ and customary courts, and the digitisation of the Laws of Delta State.
