By Jimitota Onoyume

PORT HARCOURT— Justice Daisy Okocha has finally been sworn in as substantive Chief Judge of Rivers State after serving in acting capacity twice in this administration.

Performing the swearing-in yesterday, at Government House, Port Harcourt, Governor Nyesom Wike described her emergence as victory for the rule of law, adding that he acted in line with the recommendation of the National Judicial Council, NJC, which was ratified by the Court of Appeal.

Okocha

The governor said that the judiciary should be encouraged to be independent to maintain its neutrality in a popular democracy.

“The system will collapse if we refuse to respect the judicial system of succession as laid out. My administration will never do anything that will threaten the rule of law. We will always uphold the customs and traditions of the judiciary. We will never break down the laid down procedure.

“We will never run contrary to our avowed commitment to respect the independence of the Judiciary at all times,” he said.

He  urged the new Chief Judge to uphold the constitution and give other members of the bench opportunity to contribute to decisions.

The new Chief Judge, Justice Okocha gave praises to God Almighty for making the appointment a  reality.

“This is a solemn moment for me. The NJC recommendation of  July 22, 2013 came to manifestation on January 4, 2016. God has glorified himself in my elevation as Chief Judge. Man can try, but only God’s counsel will prevail,” she said.

Justice Okocha who is the first female to be appointed Chief Judge in the state also lauded Governor Wike for making the judiciary enjoy its independence.