Serve justice with personal probity, Oborevwori tells judges

Oborevwori, at the swearing-in of Justice Catherine Ojugbana-Orishedere as President, Customary Court of Appeal, PCCA, and seven judges of the state judiciary, said he expected them to discharge their duties without fear or favour.

He said: “It is one thing for judgment to be passed, it is quite another thing for justice to be seen to be served. Justice is served when it is anchored on the timeless values of fair hearing, equity, good conscience, common sense and the guilty are punished.

“Your offices require that you maintain a high level of personal probity, devoid of greed. Given your antecedents, I have no doubt that you will justify the confidence that has been reposed in you with this appointment.

“It is, therefore, incumbent on you to be good role models to your subordinates, peers, and professional colleagues. You must endeavour to leave a legacy of courage, integrity, and righteousness.”

Noting that Justice Ojugbana-Orishedere’s recommendation by the National Judicial Council, NJC, appointment and confirmation by the state House of Assembly testified to her capacity, competence and fitness for the office, he said her elevation to the position of PCCA after 23 years of service validates her credentials as an eminent jurist and faithful public servant.

Those sworn-in as judges of the state High Court were Aforkeya Obomejero, Okeleke Samuel, Umuko Godwin, Ossai Rita and Adolor Sunny.

Justice Gbakeji Michael and Uraih Patricia were sworn-in as judges of the Customary Court of Appeal.

Responding on behalf of the judges, Justice Ojugbana-Orishedere thanked the governor for finding them worthy to serve in the state judiciary, pledging their commitment to the discharge of their duties as enshrined in the constitution of the country.