“Don’t Call Me Chief Justice”- Akwa Ibom Chief Judge Clarifies Title Misuse
The Chief Judge of Akwa Ibom State, Justice Ekaete Obot, has appealed to the public to stop addressing her as “Chief Justice,” emphasizing that the title is reserved exclusively for the Chief Justice of Nigeria, currently Justice Kudirat Kekere Ekun. Justice Obot made this clarification during a Thanksgiving service at Qua Iboe Church in Uyo to mark the commencement of the 2024/2025 legal year.
Justice Obot explained, “I am Chief Judge, Ekaete Obot, not Chief Justice. The title of ‘Chief Justice’ is only for the Chief Justice of Nigeria at the Supreme Court level. At the state level, we are addressed as Chief Judges.”
During her address, the Chief Judge also appealed to Governor Umo Eno for the timely release of funds to the judiciary, noting that the state’s judicial system had struggled with financial constraints throughout 2023. She highlighted that the judiciary was severely understaffed, with the last recruitment conducted in 2012. As a result, many judicial employees are being overburdened, performing duties meant for two or three staff members.
Obot revealed that 316 staff members had retired from the judiciary in the last two years without replacements, leading to a loss of essential skills and competencies. She expressed hope that the new legal year would bring approval from the governor for much-needed recruitment.
The Chief Judge also raised concerns about conditions in correctional facilities. During her visits, she discovered a lack of basic education for inmates and called for adult education programs within correctional centers to help rehabilitate prisoners. She also suggested the creation of a “Borstal Institute” to reform young offenders and prepare them for reintegration into society.
In response, Governor Umo Eno assured the judiciary of his administration’s commitment to supporting the quick dispensation of justice. Speaking during the service, the governor promised to construct a dedicated estate for serving judges in Akwa Ibom by next year, comparing it to similar developments in Rivers, Bayelsa, and Lagos States.
“I have had a very good working relationship with the judiciary led by Justice Ekaete Obot. We are ready to collaborate to address the issues facing the judiciary. By next year, we will acquire land and begin the construction of an estate exclusively for serving judges,” the governor said.
Governor Eno praised Justice Obot’s efforts in prison decongestion and upholding justice, reaffirming his commitment to enhancing judicial welfare in the state.
