'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER – In a significant move to bolster the state judiciary, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has sworn in ten newly appointed judges at a ceremony held at Muhammadu Buhari Square. Addressing the new judges, Governor Ododo stressed the importance of integrity, fairness, and dedication to the principles of justice in their service to the people of Kogi State.
The Governor highlighted the commitment of his administration to fostering a just and fair society, noting that the judiciary is the "last hope of the common man." He emphasized that a trusted judiciary is crucial for maintaining peace and security, urging the judges to treat everyone equally, regardless of class, religion, or ethnicity.
"A just and fair society is where everybody is treated equally regardless of class, religion, and ethnicity. Therefore, you must be reminded and be guided by the oaths you have just taken," Governor Ododo stated.
Governor Ododo assured that his administration would not interfere with the judiciary's activities, allowing the judges to operate within the law's bounds. He also presented vehicles to some judges and promised that more judges would receive new vehicles in future allocations.
The Chief Judge of Kogi State, Hon. Justice Josiah Majebi, urged the new judges to maintain the integrity of all litigants and avoid media trials. He thanked Governor Ododo for his support and advised the judges' families not to interfere with their duties.
State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Barrister Muiz Abdallah, called on the new judges to demonstrate their worth and avoid actions that could tarnish the judiciary's reputation.
The newly sworn-in High Court judges are Justices Ajeshola Joseph Sunday, Badama Kadiri, Ojoma Rachel Haruna, and Ezema Beatrice Ada. The Khadis of the Shariah Court of Appeal include Muhammad Bello Muhammad, Okino Isah Saidu, Idris Alhaji Abdullahi, Shaibu Ridwan Aliyu, and Yakubu Adavenege. Justice Maryanne Oziohu Otaru was sworn in as a judge of the Customary Court of Appeal.
This ceremony marks a pivotal moment in Kogi State's judiciary, reflecting the administration's dedication to upholding justice and ensuring an equitable legal system for all citizens.