Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Wednesday, swore in six newly appointed judges and cautioned that any erosion of public trust in the judiciary poses a serious threat to peace, law and order in society.
Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony in Asaba, the governor warned that when citizens lose confidence in the justice system, they may resort to self-help, a development capable of plunging society into chaos and anarchy. He urged the new judges to uphold the highest standards of integrity, courage, fairness and impartiality in the discharge of their duties.
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.
Governor Oborevwori said the survival of democracy depends largely on a credible, transparent and independent judiciary, stressing that justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done. According to him, only a judiciary that acts without fear or favour can guarantee justice, sustain public confidence and preserve social harmony.
He explained that the appointments were made in line with Sections 271(2) and 281(2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), following nominations by the Delta State Judicial Service Commission and approval by the National Judicial Council.
Congratulating the judges, Oborevwori described their elevation as a testament to their legal competence, professionalism and integrity. He urged them to resist all forms of pressure and temptation capable of undermining judicial independence, noting that in the court of public opinion, it is often the judge, not the litigants, who is on trial.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the justice delivery system, saying the appointment of additional judges would help decongest courts, reduce delays and bring justice closer to the people, especially in rural areas.
He highlighted ongoing reforms, including the construction of judges’ quarters, renovation of magistrates’ and customary courts, digitisation of the Laws of Delta State, and the installation of virtual court hearing facilities in High Courts and correctional centres in Asaba, Warri, Ogwashi-Uku and Sapele, supported by solar power.
Oborevwori also disclosed plans to introduce automated court recording systems and noted the establishment of the Delta State Criminal Information System, a centralised digital platform for criminal profiling, case management and offender tracking using biometric data.
He further announced that a career civil servant, Mr. Omamuzo Erebe, Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Justice, attained the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria in 2025, describing the achievement as a reflection of the strength of Delta State’s public service.
Responding on behalf of the new judges, Justice Bridget Onome Ojeikere thanked the governor for his support and respect for judicial independence, pledging that the judges would dispense justice with integrity and without fear or favour.
The ceremony was attended by top government officials, lawmakers, judicial officers and other stakeholders.
