Gov Otu Swars-in 2 New Judges, Harps On Judicial Integrity

By Musa Kutama, Calabar

The Cross River State Governor, Bassey Edet Otu has, on Wednesday sworn-in two new judges into the Cross River State Judiciary, charging them to uphold integrity, fairness and independence of the courts in the dispensation of justice.

The swearing in held at the Executive Council Chambers of the Governor’s Office in Calabar, formally elevated Edu Glory Bassey, Esq and Irem Melody Bassey, Esq to the bench, raising the number of judges in the state to 32.

In his address, the governor applauded the judiciary for adhering to due process in judicial appointments and urged the new appointees to rise above political influence and societal pressures.

His words “Your elevation has come at a time when the judiciary is under intense public scrutiny. The nation is yearning for courageous and morally upright judges who can restore confidence in the Temple of Justice. You must avoid undue closeness with the political class, resist being used as instruments for political vendetta and ensure that your rulings are rooted in law and common sense,” Otu said.

He cautioned the judges against judicial abuse, particularly the issuance of conflicting rulings by courts of coordinate jurisdiction, describing such acts as “judicial rascality” that undermines public trust. He urged the new judges to be fair, firm and guided by the Revised Code of Conduct for Judicial Officers.

Earlier, the Chief Judge of Cross River State, Justice Akon Ikpeme, described the occasion as historic, noting that the judiciary in the state had grown from 17 judges in 2021 to 32 under her watch, a feat she termed “unprecedented.”

She expressed gratitude to Governor Otu and the National Judicial Council (NJC) for their support, pledging that the judiciary in the state would continue to uphold its independence while working harmoniously with other arms of government.

Speaking on behalf of the new judges, Edu Glory Bassey, Esq expressed gratitude to God, the Governor and the Chief Judge for the opportunity to serve, pledging that they would dispense justice with diligence, courage and fear of God.

“We assure you, Your Excellency, that we will serve with responsibility and dedication. We will stand firm to make God, Cross River State, the judiciary and our families proud,” she said.