By Oghenefejiro Emado
28, January 2026
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has warned that the erosion of public confidence in the judiciary poses a significant threat to peace, law, and order in the state.
He emphasized that when citizens lose faith in the justice system, they may resort to self-help, leading to chaos and anarchy.
The governor made this statement during the swearing-in ceremony of six newly appointed judges for the Delta State High Court and the Customary Court of Appeal.
The newly sworn-in judges are:
Justice Otite Jonah Akpobaro, Justice Jereoma Sam-Oligida, Justice Irene Boeye Ukuli.
Others are Justice Otome Benjamin Adamidenyo, Justice Bridget Onome Ojeikere (Customary Court of Appeal), Justice Stella Ovuorieroro Okah (Customary Court of Appeal)
Governor Oborevwori stressed that the stability of any democratic society relies heavily on a credible, transparent, and independent judiciary.
He emphasized that justice must not only be done but must also be seen to be done, and that only a judiciary that acts without fear or favor can sustain public trust and guarantee justice for all.
The governor explained that the appointments were made in accordance with Sections 271(2) and 281(2) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), which empower 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 consideration by the NJC, which carefully screened and approved those found suitable for appointment.
Governor Oborevwori congratulated the newly sworn-in judges, describing their elevation as a vote of confidence in their legal knowledge, integrity, professionalism, and discipline.
The Delta State Governor urged them to uphold the highest standards of probity, fairness, courage, and impartiality in the discharge of their constitutional duties.
The governor also highlighted his administration’s commitment to strengthening the justice delivery system in the state, citing several reforms and interventions undertaken to support the judiciary.
These include the construction of judges’ quarters, renovation of magistrates’ and customary courts, digitization of the Laws of Delta State, and the introduction of virtual court hearing facilities.
Furthermore, Governor Oborevwori announced plans to introduce automated court recording systems to improve accuracy and speed in judicial proceedings.
He also highlighted the introduction of the Delta State Criminal Information System, a centralized digital platform for criminal profiling, case management, and offender tracking using biometric data.
In response, Justice Bridget Onome Ojeikere, on behalf of the newly sworn-in judges, 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 favor.
