Following the death of the state Chief Judge, Justice Okoi Ikpi Itam, Cross River State governor, Senator Ben Ayade, Tuesday, at the state executive chambers, calabar, swore in an acting Chief Judge, Justice Micheal Edem.
Swearing in the acting Chief Judge whose appointment is in line with Section 271(4), of the 1999 constitution of the Federal Republic Of Nigeria, Governor Ayade said: “We are witnessing the ascension into power of a man with energy, great understanding of literature and poetry of life, an impartial judge.”
According to Ayade, the new acting CJ is “a man who by his looks alone inspires confidence that Cross River State is already getting set for growth.”
The governor charged Justice Edem “to bring the needed reforms to the judiciary, as well as ensure closer relationship between the executive and the judiciary while setting a new standard for a higher elevation.”
Ayade who described the acting C.J as ‘Power Mike’ who is “filled with strength and stamina”, noted that I am confident that you will trash
out some outstanding cases that have been pending for too long.”
The governor enjoined Justice Edem to be guided by his declaration and oath of office which states that he will not allow his personal interest to influence his official decision or actions that will not will not be in the Interest of the common man.”
He added that “this is the time that Cross River will roll out her drums to celebrate a new man who comes with swagger, character and energy.”
Continuing, Ayade maintained that by virtue of his appointment, Cross Riverians will see peace, love, tranquillity, noting that Justice Edem’s great intellect will direct and take Cross River to higher heights as the number four man in the state.
Responding, the newly sworn-in Acting Chief Judge said: “I am not new to the confidence
reposed in me and I am
undaunted because I think
with due respect to modesty, I can always do it and do it well.”
Quoting Shakespeare’s Hamlet, Edem said: “If it were done when it were done, it were well done if it were done quickly,”
adding that “I will be quick in the discharge of my responsibility to the glory and credit of the state government and all the citizens therein because in my hand are powers. And I can assure that there will be judicious use of the power.”
Assuring that under his watch the three arms of government will work in unison, Edem maintained that “I am that child who has been given the honour to cure and I know that I will always cure.”
