Opening of 2024/2025 legal year: Governor Otu urge Judges to reflect God’s virtues in dispensing justice

The Governor of Cross River State, Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu, extends his congratulations to the Chief Judge of the State and members of the legal profession on the commencement of the 2024/2025 Legal Year, emphasizing the importance of judges aspiring to mirror the wisdom and justice of the Almighty God, the ultimate arbiter.

Addressing attendees at a special thanksgiving service hosted at the Unical Chapel of Redemption, the Governor affirmed his administration’s commitment to fostering a strong partnership between the executive and judiciary branches of government.

According to a Facebook post by Government House Press Calabar, the Governor, represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Dr. Peter Odey, stated that “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. Additionally, we have demonstrated our unwavering support for the judiciary by prioritizing the needs of judicial officers.

“I urge all judicial officers and legal practitioners to approach this new year with renewed dedication, recognizing their vital role as custodians of justice. 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.”

During his sermon, Rev. Dr. Joseph Ushie, the Chaplain of Unical Chapel of Redemption, drew inspiration from II Samuel 23:3-4, urging legal professionals to conduct themselves with integrity, emphasizing that God, as the ultimate judge, administers true justice. He cautioned judges on the profound impact of their decisions, which can reverberate through generations.

In her address, the State Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Akon Bassey Ikpeme, called upon judges to discharge their duty of dispensing justice with reverence for God and in accordance with the laws of the land. She underscored 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, Prof. Paul Ajah, Chairman of the Unical Chapel of Redemption Council, hailed the commencement of the 2024/2025 Legal Year for the Cross River State 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, and traditional leaders, graced the event with their presence.