Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has called on members of the Bench to uphold the highest standards of probity, fairness, courage, and impartiality in carrying out their constitutional responsibilities.
The governor made the remarks on Wednesday, the 28th of January, 2026, in Asaba during the swearing-in ceremony of six newly appointed judges to the Delta State High Court and the Customary Court of Appeal. He cautioned judges to resist all forms of temptation that could undermine judicial independence.
He emphasized that erosion of public confidence in the judiciary represents a serious threat to peace, law, and order.
He noted that during adjudication, it is often the judge, rather than the litigants, who is ultimately on trial in the court of public opinion.
According to Governor Oborevwori, when citizens lose trust in the justice system, they may resort to self-help, creating conditions that could plunge society into chaos and anarchy.
He further stated that the stability of any democratic society depends heavily on a credible, transparent, and independent judiciary, stressing that justice must not only be done but must also be seen to be done.
“Only a judiciary that acts without fear or favour can sustain public trust, guarantee justice for all, and preserve social harmony in the state and the nation,” he said.
The governor explained that the appointments were made strictly in accordance with Sections 271(2) and 281(2) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), which empowers state governors to appoint judges on the recommendation of the National Judicial Council (NJC).
He disclosed that the Delta State Judicial Service Commission nominated candidates for NJC consideration, which carefully screened and approved those deemed suitable for appointment.
Oborevwori congratulated the newly sworn-in judges, describing their elevation as a vote of confidence in their legal knowledge, integrity, professionalism, and discipline.
“As you begin this new journey as privileged members of the Bench, I expect you to uphold the same spirit of hard work, commitment, excellence and high ethical standards that qualified you for this noble office,” the governor said.
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Governor Oborevwori also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the justice delivery system in Delta State, describing the ceremony as another milestone in efforts to build a judiciary that is functional, fast, fair, and accessible.
He added that the appointment of additional judges would help decongest courts, reduce delays, and bring justice closer to the people, particularly those in rural communities.
Responding on behalf of the newly sworn-in judges, Justice Bridget Onome Ojeikere expressed profound gratitude to Governor Oborevwori for his support and respect for judicial independence, pledging that the judges would discharge their duties with integrity and without fear or favour.
The ceremony was attended by top government officials, members of the legislature, judiciary, and other stakeholders.
Those sworn in as judges of the Delta State High Court are 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 Delta State Customary Court of Appeal.