Gov Hope Uzodimma of Imo, has sworn in Hon. Justice Victor Okorie as the Acting President of the Imo State Customary Court of Appeal, Owerri.The governor swore in Okorie at a brief ceremony in Owerri on Friday.
Addressing Okorie, members of the Bar and the Bench, Uzodimma congratulated him and said that his appointment is strictly on merit and in adherence to due process.He charged Okorie to discharge his duties in full compliance with the principles of due process and the rule of law upon which he was nominated and inaugurated.
He seized the opportunity to remind Imo people that his government is anchored on respect for the rule of law and due process, adding that he expects Okorie to follow the same process.
He also promised to provide the judiciary with the necessary tools that would assist the members in the dispensation of justice in the State.“Your appointment comes with a lot of responsibilities which require you to live above board and show examples that will galvanize the Bench and the Bar to be always on their toes.
“Remember that after God, it is only the judges that hold the authority to make pronouncements that could lead to life and death; hence such authorities must be delivered and/or dispensed with the utmost fear of God.
“Always bear the people in mind while dispensing justice because they look up to the judiciary as the last hope of the common man,” the governor said.
Speaking, Okorie thanked Gov. Uzodimma for finding time despite his crowded schedule to inaugurate him.
He promised to be guided, always, by the letters of the oaths of office he took in the discharge of his duties.
He also promised to work to improve on the already set standards by his predecessors in the State Customary Court of Appeal. (NAN)
