Oborevwori Swears In Six Judges, Warns Against Eroding Public Trust In Judiciary
DELTA State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has cautioned that diminishing public confidence in the judiciary poses a serious danger to law and order, stressing that when citizens lose trust in the justice system, they may resort to self-help—an action capable of throwing society into instability.
He issued the warning in Asaba on Wednesday during the swearing-in of six newly appointed judges for the Delta State High Court and the State Customary Court of Appeal. The governor urged the new appointees to uphold integrity, fairness, courage, and impartiality in carrying out their constitutional responsibilities.
The newly sworn-in judges of the High Court include Justice Otite Jonah Akpobaro, Justice Jereoma Sam-Oligida, Justice Irene Boeye Ukuli, and Justice Otome Benjamin Adamidenyo. Justice Bridget Onome Ojeikere and Justice Stella Ovuorieroro Okah were sworn in as Justices of the Customary Court of Appeal.
Governor Oborevwori emphasised that a transparent, credible, and independent judiciary is the backbone of any functioning democracy, noting that justice must not only be done but must also be seen to be done. Only a judiciary that operates without fear or favour, he said, can safeguard public trust and guarantee justice for all.
He explained that the appointments were made in strict accordance with Sections 271(2) and 281(2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which empower state governors to appoint judges based on recommendations from the National Judicial Council (NJC). The Delta State Judicial Service Commission nominated the candidates, who were screened and approved by the NJC.
Congratulating the appointees, the governor described their elevation as a recognition of their competence, character, and dedication to service. He urged them to maintain high ethical standards, warning that judges are often judged more critically by the public than the litigants before them.
Oborevwori reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to judicial reforms, saying the new appointments would help decongest courts, speed up trials, and improve access to justice—especially for rural communities.
He listed several ongoing interventions, including the construction of judges’ quarters, renovation of magistrates’ and customary courts, and the digitisation of the Laws of Delta State, now available online. He also highlighted the installation of virtual hearing facilities in courts and correctional centres, supported by solar energy for uninterrupted sessions. Plans for automated court recording systems are also underway.
The governor further noted progress in justice sector digitalisation with the Delta State Criminal Information System, a biometric-based platform for criminal profiling, case tracking, and offender management.
He also celebrated a historic milestone achieved in 2025, when Mr. Omamuzo Erebe—Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Justice—became the first career civil servant in Delta State to attain the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN).
Responding on behalf of the new judges, Justice Bridget Onome Ojeikere expressed gratitude to the governor and pledged unwavering commitment to justice, fairness, and independence.
The ceremony was attended by top government officials, lawmakers, members of the judiciary, and other key stakeholders.
