Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, has reaffirmed the vital role of the judiciary as the ultimate refuge for the common man, urging judicial officers to uphold integrity and fairness in the discharge of their duties.
Speaking on Friday during a thanksgiving and valedictory court session marking the beginning of the 2025/2026 legal year in Yenagoa, Governor Diri called for unwavering uprightness within the temple of justice.
“It has become an annual ritual, but as the Bible says, ‘Seek ye first the kingdom of God and all other things shall be added unto thee.’ Today, we are handing over this legal year to God for His guidance and protection,” the governor declared.
He encouraged judicial officers to allow themselves to be instruments of divine justice, free from external pressures and guided by conscience.
“In today’s Nigeria, I appeal to all — particularly our people in Bayelsa — to let the judiciary function without interference, to serve with integrity and deliver sound, incorruptible judgments,” Diri stated.
He emphasised that public trust in governance hinges significantly on the credibility of the judiciary, which must serve all citizens equitably, regardless of social status.
“The judiciary is a highly autonomous arm of government. Judges must stand firm for what is right — always,” he added.
Also speaking at the event, the Chief Judge of Bayelsa State, Justice Matilda Ayemieye, expressed appreciation for the state government’s consistent support, particularly in ensuring the judiciary’s operational independence.
She noted that the annual court session offers an opportunity for reflection, assessment, and recommitment to the rule of law.
“It’s a day of accountability. We look back at the previous year and evaluate how well we have served the people. Our goal remains to make Bayelsa’s judiciary a model across the country,” Justice Ayemieye said.
The Chief Judge also praised the harmonious working relationship between the judiciary, the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), and the other arms of government.
In his remarks, the state’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Biriyai Dambo (SAN), welcomed the start of the new legal year with optimism, applauding the commitment of both the bar and the bench to upholding justice.
He highlighted key reforms in the justice sector under Governor Diri’s administration, including the full payment of entitlements owed to law officers and improved welfare across the judiciary.
“This administration has restored morale among legal officers, which has, in turn, strengthened justice delivery in the state,” Dambo noted.
He further stated that the Ministry of Justice is fully open to partnerships that will continue to elevate Bayelsa’s justice system, adding:
“We’ve also supported the NBA branches in Yenagoa and Sagbama. Our doors remain open for more collaboration to enhance justice in our state.”
NAN
