- Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State has officially inaugurated Justice Matilda Ayemieye as the fourth substantive Chief Judge of the state, following her six-month tenure as the acting Chief Judge.
The swearing-in ceremony took place yesterday at the Government House in Yenagoa, specifically in the Executive Council Chambers.
The oaths of allegiance and office were administered to Justice Ayemieye by the state Chief Registrar, Amaebi Orukari.
Justice Ayemieye assumed the role of acting Chief Judge on January 16, 2023, after the retirement of her predecessor, Justice Kate Abiri.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Daniel Alabrah, Governor Diri emphasized that Justice Ayemieye’s appointment adheres to established protocols and is by Section 271 Subsection 1 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
The governor at the ceremony said: “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.”
In his address, Governor Douye Diri highlighted that the event marked a momentous achievement in his administration’s dedication to upholding the rule of law and ensuring the efficient dispensation of justice.
He emphasized that the appointment of Justice Matilda Ayemieye signifies the strengthening of the state’s judicial framework, which steadfastly aims to deliver fairness, impartiality, and justice to all.
Governor Diri further encouraged the judges to remain steadfast and unaffected by political or economic influences.
With Justice Ayemieye at the helm, he expressed his confidence that the judiciary would transcend any obstacles and continue to serve as a beacon of hope for those oppressed and marginalized in society.
