…As Bayelsa marks 2025/2026 Legal Year
Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State has called on Nigerians to allow the judiciary to perform its duties independently and in accordance with the dictates of conscience and the rule of law.
Diri made the appeal on Friday during the 2025/2026 Legal Year Thanksgiving and Valedictory Court Session held at the Bayelsa State High Court complex in Yenagoa.
The governor described the judiciary as the “hope of the common man,” urging citizens to respect and support its role in upholding justice and fairness in society.
“It has become an annual ritual, but we all know that the Bible says, ‘Seek ye first the kingdom of God and all other things shall be added unto you.’ Today, we are handing over this new legal year to God because we know that the judiciary will never be the same again,” Diri said.
“I appeal to Nigerians, and indeed Bayelsans, to allow the judiciary to be used by God, to work to the best of their ability and conscience, to deliver incorruptible and sound judgments that will enhance justice and public confidence.”
The governor commended the judiciary for its integrity and commitment to justice, emphasizing that public trust rests largely on its ability to remain impartial and courageous in the face of pressure.
He urged judges and magistrates to continue to “stand tall for what is right,” adding that as an independent arm of government, they have a duty to ensure that justice is neither delayed nor denied.
The Chief Judge of Bayelsa State, Justice Matilda Ayemieye, expressed appreciation to the state government for its consistent support, which she said has strengthened judicial independence and improved working conditions.
Justice Ayemieye noted that the new legal year provides an opportunity for self-assessment, accountability, and renewed dedication to upholding the rule of law.
“The new legal year allows us to reflect on our achievements and challenges, to assess ourselves and reaffirm our commitment to the people we serve. It is also a day of accountability,” she said.
She also commended the cordial relationship among the judiciary, the executive, the legislature, and the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) in the state, noting that the collaboration has enhanced justice delivery.
The Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Biriyai Dambo (SAN), in his goodwill message, lauded the judiciary and members of the bar for their dedication to upholding justice in Bayelsa.
He praised the Diri administration for prioritizing the welfare of judicial officers and law practitioners in the Ministry of Justice.
“The present administration has paid all outstanding entitlements owed to law officers and has continued to boost their morale. We have also supported the NBA branches in Yenagoa and Sagbama to strengthen the justice system,” Dambo said.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to sustaining a robust and transparent judicial system that guarantees justice for all.
