Governor of Ondo State, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, says no one can influence the appointment of a Judge in Nigeria in view of the constitutional provisions which stipulate the processes.
Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony of the Acting Chief Judge of Ondo State in Akure, Governor Akeredolu described the judiciary as one of the cardinal pillars a society rests and which sustains democratic institution.
“a governor is merely invited to appoint a Judge or a Chief Judge, consequent upon the recommendation by the National Judicial Council, NJC,” Akeredolu said.
He added that the judiciary is saddled with the responsibility of dispensing justice without fear or favour according to the law of the land.
“This sacred charge leaves no room for indulgence and sloppines. Anyone who aspires to administer justice must be a ‘fit and proper’ person, in all ramifications,” he said.
Governor Akeredolu assured that his “administration will continue to be associated with merit and unwavering dedication to serve the people.”
Responding, the new Ondo State Acting Chief Judge, Justice Olanrewaju Olutoyin Akeredolu said she was conscious of the fact that her elevation was an opportunity to serve God and humanity and as such promised to give attention to details so as not to disappoint the state.
“I want to assure you that my mind is made up to please God, therefore I am confident that I will not disappoint you,” she said.
She solicited the cooperation of other Judges, Registrars, Magistrates and the entire workforce of the judiciary to move the institution forward.
“Let us work together to restore the glory of the judiciary, we must have zero tolerance for corruption and pay attention to details because they count”, she appealed.
Eminent dignitaries who attended the programme include the President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Abubakar Balarabe Mahmoud; past President of NBA, Lanke Odogiyan; Justice Aderonke Aderemi from Oyo Judiciary; Justice Demo Akanbi from Osun Judiciary; immediate past Chief Judge of Ondo State, Hon Justice Olasehinde Kumuyi; Rt. Hon. Justice Edward Ojuolape and his wife.
Others are: the pioneer Bishop of Akure Diocese, Anglican Communion, Bishop Emmanuel Bolanle Gbonigi; Speaker of Ondo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Bamidele Oleyelogun; Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Ogundeji Iroju with members of the State House of Assembly; Head of Service, Mr Oluwatoyin Akinkuotu and Secretary to the Ekiti State Government, Dr (Mrs) Modupe Alade.
Also the President Customary Court of Appeal, Hon. Justice F.O. Aguda-Taiwo; with all Honourable Justices of the State High Court; Judges of the Customary Court of Appeal ; Judges in the Magistrate Courts were led by their Chairman, Mrs Bolatito Ajibade; Permanent Secretaries; Senior Special Assistants to the Ondo State Governor and Chairmen of various branches of NBA in Ondo State.
The family and friends of the judiciary particularly of the newly sworn-in Acting Chief Judge were led to the ceremony by her husband Revd. Akin Akeredolu with their children.
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