By Onwa Ekor
Cross River governor, Prince Bassey Otu, recently sworn in two new judges into the State Judiciary, charging them to uphold integrity, fairness, and the independence of the courts in the dispensation of justice.
The ceremony, held at the Executive Council Chambers of the Governor’s Office in Calabar, formally elevated Edu Glory Bassey, Esq. and Irem Melody Bassey, Esq. to the bench, raising the number of judges in the state to 32.
Performing the swearing in, Otu commended the judiciary for adhering to due process in judicial appointments and urged the new appointees to rise above political influence and societal pressures.
“Your elevation has come at a time when the judiciary is under intense public scrutiny and the nation yearning for courageous and morally upright judges who can restore confidence in the Temple of Justice.
“You must avoid undue closeness with the political class, resist being used as instruments for political vendetta, and ensure that your rulings are rooted in law and common sense,” the governor said.
He further cautioned against judicial abuse, particularly the issuance of conflicting rulings by courts of coordinate jurisdiction, describing such acts as “judicial rascality” that undermines public trust.
Otu urged the new judges to be fair, firm, and guided by the Revised Code of Conduct for Judicial Officers.
Earlier, the Chief Judge of Cross River State, Justice Akon Ikpeme, described the occasion as historic, noting that the judiciary in the state had grown from 17 judges in 2021 to 32 under her watch, a feat she termed “unprecedented.”
She expressed gratitude to Otu and the National Judicial Council (NJC) for their support, pledging that the judiciary in the state would continue to uphold its independence while working harmoniously with other arms of government.
Speaking on behalf of the new judges, Edu Glory Bassey, Esq. expressed gratitude to God, the governor, and the Chief Judge for the opportunity to serve, pledging that they would dispense justice with diligence, courage, and fear of God.
“We assure you, Your Excellency, that we will serve with responsibility and dedication.
“We will stand firm to make God, Cross River, the judiciary, and our families proud,” she said.
