Governor Otu Swears in New Judges, Calls for Integrity and Fairness in Judiciary
By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
The Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Otu, has sworn in two new judges into the state judiciary, urging them to uphold integrity, fairness, and judicial independence in the discharge of their duties.
Historic Elevation in Cross River Judiciary
The swearing-in ceremony, held on Wednesday at the Executive Council Chambers, Calabar, saw Edu Glory Bassey, Esq. and Irem Melody Bassey, Esq. elevated to the bench, bringing the total number of judges in Cross River State to 32.
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Governor Otu commended the judiciary for following due process in appointments and emphasised the need for judicial officers to rise above political pressure and personal interests.
“Your elevation comes at a time when the judiciary is under intense public scrutiny. We need courageous, morally upright judges who can restore confidence in the Temple of Justice. You must avoid undue closeness with politicians and ensure your rulings remain grounded in law and common sense,” the Governor stated.
Governor Warns Against Judicial Misconduct
The Governor condemned the trend of conflicting rulings by courts of equal jurisdiction, describing it as “judicial rascality” that erodes public confidence in the justice system. He called on the new judges to remain impartial, uphold the Revised Code of Conduct for Judicial Officers, and deliver judgments that stand the test of law and conscience.
Judiciary’s Growth Under Justice Akon Ikpeme
Earlier, the Chief Judge of Cross River State, Justice Akon Ikpeme, hailed the occasion as historic, noting that under her leadership, the judiciary had grown from 17 judges in 2021 to 32 in 2025 — a development she described as unprecedented.
She expressed appreciation to Governor Otu and the National Judicial Council for their support, pledging continued cooperation among the three arms of government while safeguarding judicial independence.
New Judges Pledge Diligence and Courage
Speaking on behalf of the newly sworn-in judges, Edu Glory Bassey, Esq. promised to serve with dedication and fear of God.
“We assure Your Excellency that we will dispense justice with integrity, courage, and responsibility. We will make God, Cross River State, the judiciary, and our families proud,” she affirmed.
The ceremony marks a significant milestone in strengthening the judiciary in Cross River State, with expectations high for impartial and transparent justice delivery in the years ahead.
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