Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State has advised the judiciary to sustain the peaceful relationship that existed between it and other arms of government for the past six years in the state.
Uduaghan gave the advice on Saturday night at a banquet and dinner organized by the government in honour of two retired Chief Judges in the state: Justices Roseline Bozimo and Justice Abiodun Smith.
He said the government had robust and warm relationship with the judiciary, adding that the Chief Judges appointed in the past 16 years in the state had demonstrated integrity and hard work.
He said the judiciary in the state had operated independently, especially in their decisions and delivery of judgment.
He said the government allowed the judges to take independent decisions even at the most critical times “because we know that they are capable and fair in their judgment.
“Even during the eight years of my predecessor, Chief James Ibori, peace reigned among the executive, judiciary and the legislature.
“So, I pray that that relationship will continue for peace to reign in Delta.”
The governor thanked Justices Bozimo and Smith for their commitment and dedication to duty which he said, made his administration peaceful.
Uduaghan challenged the Acting Chief Judge, Justice Marshall Umukoro, to work hard to keep the trend and expressed confidence in his ability to discharge his duty creditably.
Uduaghan thanked the people of the state for making his administration successful and urged them to support the incoming administration of Senator Ifeanyi Okowa.
In their separate responses, Bozimo and Smith thanked God, the governor and the people of the state for giving them the needed support to perform their duties.
They expressed appreciation to their families and friends who stood by them throughout their period in service.
NAN.