C'River: Governor Otu Presents Official Vehicles To High Court Judges
By Edem ITA
In fulfillment of his earlier promise to enhance the discharge of their official functions, Cross River Governor, Senator Bassey Otu has presented seven brand new Ford Edge Sports Utility Vehicles SUV, to High Court Judges serving in the state judiciary service.
Speaking before the formal presentation yesterday,Governor Otu expressed regret over the poor working conditions experienced by the judges before the onset of his administration, assuring the such untold hardship will never resurface again.
He revealed that his administration will cultivate a robust synergy between the two arms of government to fashion out effective modalities in addressing the lingering hiccups hampering speedy trails and optimum service delivery in the system.
According to him, few weeks ago when my Lord, the Chief Judge led a team of upper benchers to my office, the issue of transportation was mentioned to me, alongside a plethora of other problems that are inherent in the Judiciary. I am glad and bold today to say that the season of sweetness has started with the Judiciary at the moment."
"I am doing this because this is an important arm of government that we should not joke with, in any society where there is no justice, such a society can not move forward and investment can not thrive where people don't trust the Justice system."
He posited that"this particular arm of government is one my administration will take special interest in because we are bringing investors across the globe to invest in our economy, and for them to have the confidence of investing here, we must demonstrate to them that there is a just and fair society where if rules are breached, punishment follows immediately"
He revealed plans to embark on a facility tour of court buildings around the state as a prelude to a comprehensive renovations needed to ensure a conducive working and serene atmosphere in tandem with acceptable standard.
Earlier, the Chief Judge of Cross River, Justice Akon Ikpeme lamented the untold hardship judges have been subjected over the years describing Governor Otu as a promised pepper.
Responding on behalf of the beneficiaries, Justice Edem Koofreh expressed appreciation to the Governor noting that the gesture will check over dependence on their personal vehicles for mobility.
The event was witnessed by the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Hon Elvert Eyambem,Secretary to the State Government , Prof Anthony Owan-Enoh, Head of Service, Dr Timothy Akwaji and the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Emmanuel Ironbar amongst other top government functionaries.
