In line with section 271 of the 1999 Constitution which empowers the Governor to appoint the Chief Judge of a State, The Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douyi Diri has sworn in a new Acting Chief Judge as former Justice Kate Abiri retires.
The commencement of the legal year coincided with the retirement of the Bayelsa State Chief Judge, Justice Kate Abiri at a special parade and valedictory court session in her honor at the High Court Complex in Yenagoa.
A book presentation and reception ceremony also formed part of the activities attended by notable dignitaries including former president Goodluck Jonathan and his Wife.
A few days after, Justice Matilda Ayemieye being the highest-ranking judge in the State, is called upon to take the oath of office at the executive chambers of the government house.
He advised the new judicial head to maintain the same harmonious relationship that the executive enjoys with the judicial arm of government.
Governor Diri said “we will expect that you will maintain the same relationship that your predecessor has already put in place”.
He wished the new acting chief judge well adding that he believes that as an administrator, she will be astutute in ensuring that all of her colleagues are carried along without discrimination.
Governor Diri also called on other members of the judiciary to support Ayemieye to enable her to succeed.
“The newly appointed Acting Chief Judge was the most senior of the judges and has been working harmoniously with her predecessor, who also worked harmoniously with the other arms of government.
“So, beyond being a high court judge, you are now in government as the leader of the judicial arm. We expect that you will maintain the same harmonious relationship that this government has enjoyed with the judicial arm of government.
“Having gone through your CV, you have the pedigree to lead the judiciary. So, I wish you well and urge you to carry your colleagues along without discrimination. I pray that going forward you will move the state judiciary to greater heights,” the governor stated.
Speaking to newsmen, the acting chief judge promised judicial reforms that will take court hearings back to the local government areas.
With her extensive experience in the Nigerian justice system, the state government has no doubt of her pedigree in leading the judiciary.
