Kogi state governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello has charged newly sworn in chief judge of the state, Justice Richard Okorunfemi and President of the Customary Court of Appeal, Justice Isiaka Momoh-Jimoh to execute functions of their offices with erudition and the fear of Almighty God.
The governor, who expressed optimism that the judges will provide excellent leadership for the Judiciary and the state in general, spoke on Thursday at their swearing in held at the government House in Lokoja.
Represented by the state Deputy governor, Chief Edward Onoja, the governor urged them to bring their considerable history as experienced jurists to bear in the administration of justice in the state.
Governor Bello reiterated that in every democracy, including Nigeria and Kogi Government, the Judiciary is a co-equal Arm, which together with the Executive and the Legislative Arms constitute Government and conduct the business thereof in accordance with their respective constitutional mandates.
He said “as proof positive of our cordial relationship in the three Arms of Government, we have had multiple successions into the Judicial Arm since the passage of His Lordship, Honourable Justice Nasir Ajanah (may his soul continue to rest in peace). Each time, we have respected the legal and seniority principles set by the Constitution and the Judiciary herself and refrained from interfering with existing hierarchies or organograms. Today is another example of this”.
He continued “on the 26th of March, 2021 and 2nd of August, 2021 respectively we administered the Oath of Office to their Lordships into their respective Offices in an Acting capacity. It gives me special joy today that we have had the pleasure of swearing them in a short while ago as substantive occupants of the same Offices.
“I am proud of them, especially the ease with which they scaled through all the processes leading up to today’s event, including screening and confirmation at the Kogi State House of Assembly.
“It confirms that our faith in them was not misplaced and also that they are the real deal, able to stand scrutiny into their professional and personal lives and come out in flying colours.
“We are indeed fortunate to have found worthy incumbents for these two most critical Offices in the Administration of Justice in Kogi State.
“I verily affirm that the two lawlords to whom we have entrusted these high offices and responsibilities are persons who well known to me. I further affirm that they are possessed of the education, experience and above all, character to discharge their duties effectively, efficiently and with the fear of Almighty God” governor Bello added.
