A judge at the Bayelsa State High Court, Justice Nayai Aganaba, who was stoned out of court by thugs during a hearing on an intra-party matter involving the All Progressives Congress (APC) factions in the state, is retiring from service.
Speaking on Tuesday during a book launch and reception in honour of the retiring Justice Aganaba in Yenagoa, the state capital, Governor Douye Diri showered encomiums on the judge whom he described as incorruptible, Daily Trust reports.
Diri, who also condemned the last week’s disruption of proceedings in the Bayelsa State High Court 3 presided by Justice Aganaba, said the treatment meted out to the judge by the opposition party members was “most unfortunate.”
The governor’s spokesman, Daniel Alabrah, in a statement quoted Diri as cautioning politicians against desecrating the hallowed temple of justice and the judiciary, saying the courts remain the last hope of the common man.
He thanked God for sparing the life of the judge throughout his meritorious service to the state and nation, adding that the state was very proud of his achievements and would not hesitate to call on him whenever his services were needed.
He said, “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 Ijawland; 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.
“My brother, Justice Aganaba, you came, you saw and conquered. We hope this will not be your last service to the state. We are proud of you.”
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.
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