Cross River State government has assured the state Judiciary of its ideal collaboration as they officially begin the 2023/2024 legal year.
The new legal year on Monday, begins with thanksgiving service held at St Bernard Catholic Church, Marian Hill, Calabar, immediately followed by inspection of guard of honour and court session to officially mark the commencement of activities in the court.
In his remarks, the governor of Cross River, Prince Bassey Otu, who was represented by his Deputy, Rt Hon Peter Odey, admonished the legal practitioners to be guided by the principles of integrity, professionalism and compassion.
“This occasion serves as a reminder of the pivotal role that our legal system plays in upholding justice, safeguarding our rights and ensuring the rule of law in our society.
“The legal year is a time where we reflect on accomplishments of the past and look forward to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. It is a moment of commitment towards the pursuit of justice.
“The legal year also affords us an opportunity to reflect on the state of access to justice in our society. We must make sure that Justice is only available to those who can afford it but to all members of our community.
He added that, “the government is ready to collaborate with the judiciary to ensure that our Judges are equipped with all that is necessary to ensure they discharge their duties responsibly.
“We must strive for legal system that is not only equitable and fair but also one that is inclusive and responsive to all individual regardless of their status.
“I want to assure you that this administration will meet with the judiciary and put an end to all the complaints existing in the judiciary,” he said.
On her part, the Chief Judge of Cross River State, Hon Justice Akon Ikpeme noted that it is traditional to begin the legal year in church because there’ll come a day when everyone will stand before the greatest judge to give an account of their lives.
“I have not seen this number in SANs before in an opening of legal year. I want to specifically thank you all.
“I pray in this new legal year we will judge with our consciences in place.
“We really need a multi-purpose hall, and I know with this administration it will materialize, she appealed.
Speaking to journalists on the sideline of the event, the Special Adviser to the governor on General Duty, Barr Ekpenyong Akiba, commended the cooperation that exists between the three arms of government in Cross River State and prayed that it is sustained.
“I expect that in line with the admonition today that what is due for the judiciary will not just be given but we’ll ensure that it will be given in its due course, he said.
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