The Governor of Bayelsa State, Douye Diri, on Thursday, swore in Justice Matilda Abrakasa Ayemieye as the 4th substantive Chief Judge of the state.
Justice Ayemieye, until her swearing in, was acting Chief Judge, and has now become the 4th substantive Chief Judge after Justice Koripamo Ungbuku, Justice Emmanuel Igoniwari and Justice Kate Abiri.
The swearing in ceremony, which took place at the Executive Council chambers in Government House, also had in attendance, Justice Patience Ama Diri, wife of the Governor; Abraham Ingobere, Speaker, Bayelsa State House of Assembly, represented by the Deputy Speaker, Michael Ogbere; and members of the State House of Assembly.
Others in attendance were Justice Daniel Ayah, President, Customary Court of Appeal; Alabo Gideon Ekeuwei, Secretary to the State Government; Peter Akpe, Acting Chief of Staff, Government House; Irorodamie Komonibo, Principal Executive Secretary; Government House, members of the State Executive Council, Honourable Judges of the Bayelsa State Judiciary and other top government officials.
“In accordance with established practice and in line with Section 271(1) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) it is my duty and privilege as governor to appoint the Chief Judge of Bayelsa State. This section states that the Chief Judge of a state shall be appointed by the Governor of the state, following the recommendation of the National Judicial Council (NJC) subject to confirmation by the State House of Assembly.
“Today is thus a significant day for the people of Bayelsa State as we gather here to witness the swearing-in of the 4th substantive Chief Judge of our great state, Hon. Justice Matilda Abrakasa Ayemieye.
“This event symbolizes a significant milestone in our administration’s commitment to the rule of law and the effective administration of justice. It is the consolidation of our judicial system that continues to promise fairness, impartiality, and justice for all.
“I would like to extend my warmest congratulations to our distinguished Chief Judge on this well-deserved appointment. Today, we swear in a Chief Judge who has demonstrated professional competence, integrity, and a passion for justice. We believe that by appointing a Chief Judge of your caliber, we are ensuring that the judiciary remains independent, fair, and efficient in its delivery of justice to the good people of Bayelsa State. Your track record and commitment to upholding the principles of justice are well known, and I have no doubt that you will carry out your duties with utmost diligence and integrity,” Governor Diri stated.
