Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State has officially sworn in Justice Matilda Ayemieye as the fourth substantive Chief Judge of the state. Justice Ayemieye had previously served in an acting capacity for approximately six months. The swearing-in ceremony took place at the Executive Council Chambers of the Government House in Yenagoa, where the oaths of allegiance and office were administered by the state Chief Registrar, Amaebi Orukari.
Justice Ayemieye assumed the role of acting Chief Judge on January 16, 2023, following the retirement of her predecessor, Justice Kate Abiri. Governor Diri stated that her appointment as the substantive Chief Judge was in accordance with established practice and in line with Section 271 subsection 1 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
During the ceremony, Governor Diri emphasized the significance of the appointment, noting that it symbolized a milestone in his administration’s commitment to the rule of law and the effective administration of justice. He expressed the importance of the judiciary in upholding fairness, impartiality, and justice for all. The governor urged judges not to be influenced by political or economic considerations and called on the judiciary, under Justice Ayemieye’s leadership, to rise above challenges and continue to serve as a beacon of hope for the oppressed and marginalized in society.
The appointment of Justice Matilda Ayemieye as the substantive Chief Judge of Bayelsa State demonstrates the government’s dedication to ensuring a strong and impartial judicial system in the state.
