Governor Usman Ododo of Kogi on Wednesday swore in 10 new judicial officers with a promise to uphold judicial independence in the state.
The judicial officers, three of whom are women, comprised of four High Court Judges, five Khadis of Sharia Court of Appeal and one Customary Court of Appeal Judge.
The oath of office for the judicial officers was administered by the Kogi State Chief Judge, Justice Josiah Majebi.
Governor Ododo, in his remarks, noted that the new judges were men and women of impeccable character and unquestionable integrity, who had justified their qualifications for such a huge responsibility.
“One of the cardinal pillars of every society is the administration of justice. We must not only be just and fair, but must be seen to be intentional in promoting justice for all.
“A just and fair society, where everyone is treated equally, is bound to be peaceful.
“As the last hope of the common man, the judiciary owes the society an obligation to be just and fair. A judiciary trusted by the people will promote peace and security.
“An unjust judiciary is a recipe for anarchy and chaos.
“As the Chief Priests in the Temple of Justice, I urge you all to uphold the tenets that set you apart as honourable men and women of the bench.”
The governor reaffirmed his commitment to a judiciary that is independent with a free hand to play its own role in ensuring societal stability.
He added: “As your Chief Servant, I shall not interfere in your decisions. My interest is a Kogi where every ons has access to justice and is treated fairly and with a sense of equity.
“As a part of our commitment to entrench a judiciary that is insulated against corruption, our administration will continue to provide the necessary working logistics and the right environment for our judges.
“For us, it is no favours but a responsibility to protect the independence and sanctity of the Temple of Justice.
“Today, we are walking the talk by providing official vehicles to the first batch of judges. This we pledge to continue until every judge has an official vehicle.
“This will enable you to discharge your duties without fear or favour.
“We must not deprive you of your minimum comfort as you go about your duties as our rights’ defenders and the legal and moral compass of our society.”
The governor expressed his government’s commitment to putting every modality in place to ensure the security of the judges and their families.
Earlier, Majebi had congratulated the governor for the uniqueness of his government and commitment to the welfare of judicial officers.
Majebi thanked former Governor Yahaya Bello for starting the process of appointing the new judges in line with the recommendations of the National Judicial Council (NJC).
The chief judge urged the judicial officers to be professional and maintain integrity, fairness and be just in all their responsibilities as judges.
