SWEARING IN CEREMONY OF THE PRESIDENT CUSTOMARY COURT OF APPEAL
Imo State Governor has said that the Executive will work with the State judiciary and the Federal Government to find a lasting solution to prison congestion, saying that the issue has become be a major challenge to the State's justice system.
According to the Governor,"the current situation where over 70 percent of inmates in our prisons constitute awaiting trials is not acceptable as it is not a reflection of an efficient justice delivery system. We will also not hesitate to do whatever is required to sustain the ongoing reform in the judicial sector so the desired result of ensuring that the wheel of justice rolls as fast as it could, will be achieved."
The Governor further stated that his administration will embark on the review of the State's judiciary,noting that the three arms of government must form a synergy for the development of the State. He also promised to continue with judicial reforms in the State.
‘‘We are all partners in progress. We must continue to work together to deliver for the good people of Imo State,this is what governance is all about.
While congratulating the The President of the Customary Court of Appeal, Governor Hope Uzodinma expressed confidence in his capacity to continue on the path of progress that has been created in the State judiciary since the beginning of the fourth republic.
''I have absolute confidence in your ability and capacity to sustain and improve on the enviable reputation which the Imo State Judiciary has built for itself over the years,particularly since 1976 under the administration of HON. JUSTICE CHUKWUDUIFU OPUTA. During the tenure of that administration, a solid foundation was laid through the introduction and implementation of critical reforms and initiatives that are aimed at building a judicial system that is efficient, reliable and courageous to uphold the fundamental principles and ideals of equity, fairness, natural justice and the rule of law.''
The acting Chief Judge also promised speedy and effective dispensation of justice, zero tolerance for corruption and corrupt tendencies, rigorous, adequate and continuous training of judicial staff as well as improvement on the use of ICT for the delivery of justice.
