By Onwa Ekor, Calabar
As the judiciary commences its 2024/2025 legal year, Cross River governor, Prince Bassey Otu, has reassured members of the Bar and Bench of harmonious working relationship between the executive and the judiciary arms of government in the state.
Otu noted that the assurance was imperative in order to ensure security for the seamless dispensation of justice in Cross River.
Addressing attendees at a special thanksgiving service hosted at the Unical Chapel of Redemption, the Governor represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, said, “As we embark on this new legal year, I want to reassure you that the executive arm of government will continue to work closely with the judiciary to uphold its role as the beacon of hope for the common man.
“Our administration is dedicated to creating a conducive environment, providing necessary resources and ensuring security for the seamless dispensation of justice in Cross River State.
“We have championed the establishment of the Small Claims Court in Calabar, with plans to expand its reach across the state,” he said.
The governor remarked that his administration has demonstrated unwavering support for the judiciary by prioritizing the needs of judicial officers, urging
judicial officers and legal practitioners to approach the new year with renewed dedication while recognizing their vital roles as custodians of justice.
Continuing, the governor said, “your contributions shape the destiny of our state and its people, therefore, I implore you to fortify your commitment to impartiality and independence in the year ahead.”
In his sermon taken from 2 Samuel 23: 3-4, the Chaplain of Unical Chapel of Redemption, Rev. Joseph Ushie, charged legal professionals to conduct themselves with integrity, stressing that God, as the ultimate judge, administers true justice.
He cautioned judges on the profound impact of their decisions, which can reverberate through generations.
Chief Judge of the State, Hon. Justice Akon Ikpeme, enjoined judges to discharge their duty of dispensing justice with reverence for God and in accordance with the laws of the land.
She maintained that, by virtue of their calling, they act as conduits for divine justice, with their rulings holding the power to decide matters of life and death.
In his welcome speech, Pro Chairman of the Unical Chapel of Redemption Council, Prof Paul Ajah, viewed the commencement of the 2024/2025 Legal Year for the Cross River judiciary as a significant milestone, not just for the legal fraternity but for all advocates of justice, integrity, and public service in the state.
He encouraged legal practitioners to contemplate the challenges ahead and embrace technological advancements and innovative approaches to navigate the complexities of the legal landscape, thereby enhancing their service to the community.
The Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Anthony Owan-Enoh, alongside members of the State Executive Council, senior government officials as well as traditional leaders were among those that graced the event.
