The Hon. Justice Matilda Abrakasa Ayemieye was today, July 13, 2023, sworn in as the 4th Substantive Chief Judge of Bayelsa State by His Excellency Senator Douye Diri, The Executive Governor of Bayelsa State at The Executive Council Chambers.

The Governor in accordance with the 1999 constitution as amended acknowledged his duty as Governor to appoint The Chief Judge of Bayelsa State following the recommendation of the National Judicial Council subject to confirmation by the State House of Assembly, which processes have all been carried out. 

His Excellency said today is a significant day for the life and People of our State as we all gather here to witness this swearing in of the 4th Substantive Chief Judge of Bayelsa State, The Honourable Justice Matilda Abrakasa Ayemieye.  The Event, His Excellency said marks a significant mile stone of His Administration’s commitment to the Rule of Law and effective administration of justice, one that continues to promise fairness, impartiality and justice for all.

The Governor extended his warmest congratulations to the distinguished Honourable Chief Judge on this well-deserved appointment.  Today, we swear in the Chief Judge who has demonstrated professional competence, integrity and passion for justice. He said he is confident that the judiciary will remain independent, fair and efficient in its delivery of justice to the good people of Bayelsa State as the track record of the Chief Judge in promoting the principle of justice are all well known.  And without doubt, the chief Judge will carry out his duty with utmost intelligence and integrity. The Judiciary He said is a vital component of any democratic society as it plays a crucial role in uploading the rule of law, it is the corner stone of all democracies ensuring every citizen is treated fairly and justice is served to all.  As the Chief Interpreter of our laws, The Chief Judge holds a position of immense responsibility.

His Excellency, Senator Douye Diri reiterated his commitment to support the judiciary in carrying out its constitutional duties. We will provide the necessary environment, resources and infrastructure to ensure the efficient and effective functioning of our judiciary as we work to provide adequate training and capacity building for our judges, magistrates and court officials as they are the backbone of our judicial system.

The Governor Charged the Chief Judge and the Judiciary to remain independent, impartial and free from all forms of influences, as upholding the principles of justice and fairness is paramount and it is crucial that our judges are not swayed by political or economic considerations, that with the leadership of the Chief Judge, The Judiciary will rise above all challenges and continue to serve as a beacon of hope for the oppressed and marginalized in our society. 

He expressed his gratitude to all members of the judiciary for the unwavering commitment to justice. He also appreciates the immediate past Chief Judge of Bayelsa State, Hon. Justice Kate Abiri, CON, DSSRS, Life Bencher for her long and meritorious services.  While congratulating the newly appointed Chief Judge, The Honourable The Chief Judge, Honourable Justice Matilda Abrakasa Ayemieye, He admonished that the office of the Chief Judge is one of humility and servitude which he hopes will affect the Chief Judge and the judiciary.  He prayed that he who began a good work in you will carry it to a happy completion. Philippians Chapter 1:6. May the Chief Judge tenure be filled with unexampled success and positive transformation, together, we will continue to build a society where justice is accessible to all and the rule of law will always prevail.

The swearing-in was attended by Her Excellency, Justice Patience Ama Zoufa Diri, Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Secretary to the State Government, PDP State Chairman, Commissioners, Judges, Magistrates and special advisers of Bayelsa State and well-wishers.

In her brief interview with the Press after the swearing-in ceremony, Hon. Justice Matilda Abrakasa Ayemieye said one of her policy thrusts for the judiciary is to take justice closer to the people by relocating all outstation courts to their area of jurisdiction, which courts are sitting in Yenagoa, the State Capital due to insecurity challenges. The Chief Judge said for effective relocation, court halls in the outstation areas will be inspected and renovated and security will be beefed up as well.  That for courts to relocate to their stations outside the state capital shows that the government has been able to nip in the bud the issue of insecurity in the state.

Compiled by Odu, Queen Ekiotuaere, MICMC, MSPSP

Media and Information Department