On Friday, Governor Dapo Abiodun administered the oath of office to Justice Oriyomi Abiodun Sofowora, officially appointing him as the Judge of the Customary Court of Appeal.
During the ceremony, the Governor stressed the role of the judiciary in fostering political stability.
The Governor affirmed his administration’s firm belief in the independence and dynamism of the judiciary as a fundamental pillar for enhancing democracy and upholding the rule of law.
Consequently, he stressed the need for judicial officers to unfailingly demonstrate impeccable conduct and ethical behavior in the discharge of their duties.
He said: ‘My Lord, you are saddled with the dual obligations of ensuring political stability as well as being there for the downtrodden at all times as their last hope.’
‘This, you must do with total commitment, courage, and assertiveness without fear or favour.’
‘As a matter of duty, you must continue to earn public trust and ensure that all the arms of government work independently, but collectively within the tenet and principles of separation of powers for the overall good of our people.’
Abiodun highlighted the state’s instrumental role in the development and advancement of a modern and efficient legal system, not only in Nigeria but also in the West African subregion. He also underlined the state’s enduring prominence in the legal profession.
‘Luminaries from Ogun State have contributed immensely towards a virile and effective judicial system in Nigeria and on the global stage.’
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‘The judiciary balances the Executive and Legislative arms in every democratic setting and serves as a sanctuary to the common man,’ he furthered.
The Governor voiced his hopeful anticipation that the appointment of the new judge would serve to enhance and reinforce the long-standing traditions of integrity, diligence, and excellence that have consistently characterized the state judiciary.
‘Please take cognisance of the enormous burden of not only ensuring that justice is served but seen to be served effectively and efficiently without bias.’
‘As a responsible and responsive government with an unwavering bias for good governance and the rule of law, we shall stop at nothing to bring good men and women of impeccable character and proven integrity on board to join us in coordinating the affairs of the state in different capacities,’ Abiodun said.
In his address, the Governor detailed the progressive reforms introduced by his administration to improve the administration of justice.
Notable reforms include the adoption of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) for the Case Management System, the establishment of the Judges’ Clock, and the implementation of the Custody Monitoring Dashboard System.
In recognition of their dedication, Governor Abiodun thanked the members of the state’s judiciary for their commitment to upholding the esteemed principles of the legal profession.
He assured them of his administration’s continuous efforts in maintaining a strong and effective judicial system, essential for the institution of the ‘Building our Future Together agenda.’
Mrs. Sofowora expressed her deep gratitude to the Governor for granting her the privilege to serve as a judge in the Customary Court of Appeal. She assured everyone of her unwavering dedication to discharging her duties with complete fairness and neutrality.