Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has condemned last Wednesday’s disruption of proceedings at a Yenagoa High Court when a matter involving factions of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state was before Justice Nayai Aganaba.
Governor Diri said the treatment meted out to the respected Judge by the opposition party members was “most unfortunate.”
He cautioned politicians against desecrating the hallowed temple of justice and the judiciary, stressing that the courts remain the last hope of the common man.
Speaking in Yenagoa on Tuesday during a book launch and reception in honour of the retiring Judge, the Bayelsa helmsman showered encomiums on Justice Aganaba, whom he described as forthright, fearless, impartial and incorruptible.
A statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Daniel Alabrah, quoted the governor as thanking God for sparing his life throughout his meritorious service as a Judge.
He said the state was very proud of his achievements and will not hesitate to call on him whenever his services were needed.
His words: “We are all gathered to celebrate a man that has given his all to Bayelsa and Nigeria. I have known him before the creation of Bayelsa State as a man who loves his people and his state. He exhibits that at every given occasion. He is a true son of Bayelsa and Ijaw land; a very fearless and incorruptible judge.
“I like to use this occasion to call on politicians to respect judges and the judiciary. Why do we have to put Bayelsa State negatively in the media by storming a court?
“I always advise that we eschew politics of bitterness. We must at all times stand with other organs of government, the judiciary in particular, and ensure that it continues to be the last hope of the common man.
Earlier, the Bayelsa State Chief Judge, Justice Kate Abiri, said Justice Aganaba served without blemish and urged other Justices to emulate him.
Highlight of the occasion was the presentation of the book titled “Astute Judicial Judgements And Festschrift” in honour of Justice Aganaba.
In his vote of thanks, retiring Justice Aganaba expresses appreciation to God for his grace upon his life and thanks each and everyone for gracing the occasion.
