Senate President Godswill Akpabio has called on the Nigerian Judiciary to prioritize justice as a means of fostering peace and unity in the country. Speaking on Sunday in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, at a special thanksgiving event celebrating the elevation of Hon. Justice Ntong Festus Ntong to the Court of Appeal, Akpabio emphasized that “the core of the problem of Nigeria is injustice,” warning that peace cannot thrive in the absence of justice.
Akpabio, in a statement released by his Special Assistant on Media, Anietie Ekong, stressed that Nigeria’s path to peace hinges on fair administration of justice, urging judicial officers to continue serving as vessels of justice for the country and the global community.
The Senate President praised Justice Ntong for his courage and dedication to the legal profession, commending his outstanding contributions and urging him to uphold high ethical standards in his new role at the Court of Appeal. Akpabio also expressed pride in Justice Ntong’s elevation, calling him a source of pride for both Akwa Ibom State and the legal profession at large.
Reflecting on the judicial landscape in Akwa Ibom State, Akpabio shared a personal anecdote about his desire to see more representation from the state in the nation’s apex court. He recalled praying for another Akwa Ibom son or daughter to be elevated to the Supreme Court before the end of his tenure as governor—a prayer answered with the elevation of Justice Inyang Okoro.
Justice Inyang Okoro, who chaired the event, commended the Nigerian legislature for improving the salaries, allowances, and benefits for judicial officers, calling for continued integrity from Justice Ntong in his new office. In his response, Justice Ntong expressed gratitude for the support he received and pledged to continue his selfless service to the people and the nation.
