Deputy Governor of Rivers State Dr. (Mrs) Ipalibo Harry Banigo says the confirmation and swearing-in of another female, Justice Christy Gabriel Nwankwo as the President of the State Customary Court of Appeal is a fulfillment by Governor Nyesom Wike’s promise to give women opportunity to achieve their potentials under his administration.
Dr. Banigo, in a statement issued by her Press Secretary, Paul Damgbor, said the swearing-in of a substantive President of the Customary Court of Appeal few weeks after the 2nd female State Chief Judge, Justice A. I. Iyayi-Lamikanra was sworn-in, demonstrates the political will and sagacity of the State Governor to recognize professional excellence and enhance the capacity of the judiciary to discharge its duties.
The Deputy Governor said the recent conferment of a live membership of African Bar Association Council by the NBA on Governor Wike as a testimony of his immense contributions to the progress of the Judiciary.
She noted that Governor Wike, shortly on assumption of office, took steps to revive the State Judiciary that was in comatose occasioned by the political interference of the previous Government of the State.
The Deputy Governor observed that the State Government has continued to guarantee the independence of the judiciary by creating an enabling environment for Judicial Officers to perform their duties.
According to her, the State has adopted transparency, equity and fairness in the appointment of Judicial heads in the State.
Dr. Banigo described Justice Nwankwo as a competent Judiciary Officer, adding that her appointment was based on merit and urged her to justify the confidence entrusted in her.
Paul Damgbor
Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor
Friday, April 29, 2016.
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