2023/2024 Legal Year: C’ River government to collaborate judiciary, equip judges to impact responsible ruling
Cross River State Government has assured the state judiciary of its readiness to collaborate with them as they officially begin the 2023/2024 legal year.
Governor Bassey Otu disclosed this at the new legal year thanksgiving service held on Monday September 18, 2023 at Saint Bernard Catholic Church, Marian Hill Calabar which was immediately followed by inspection of guard of honour and court session to officially mark the commencement of the activities in the court.
The Governor who was represented by his deputy Rt. Hon. Peter Odey admonished legal practitioners to be guided by the principles of integrity, professionalism and compassion as the occasion serves to remind them of the pivotal role the legal profession plays in upholding justice, safeguarding human rights and ensuring the rule of law is in place in our society.
“the government is ready to collaborate with the Judiciary to ensure that our judges are equipped with all that is necessary to ensure they discharge their duties responsibly,” Otu said.
On her part, the chief judge of Cross River State, Hon. Justice Akon Ikpeme noted that it is traditional to begin the legal year in church because there would come a day when everyone will stand before the greatest Judge to give an account of their lives, acknowledging that she has never seen this number of SANS before in previous opening of legal year and thanked them all and prayed that in the new legal year. they will judge with their consciences intact.
“we really need a multi-purpose hall, and I know with this administration it will materialize,” she appealed.
Speaking to newsmen, the Special Adviser to the governor on General Duty, Barr Ekpenyong Akiba commended the cooperation that exists between the three arms of government in the State and prayed that it is sustained.
Dignitaries at the occasion included the Obong of Calabar, His Eminence, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi V and the state Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice Barr. Ededem Ani.
By: Archibong Emmanuel
(Snr. Reporter)
