By Nwakaji Martins
Former President, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, ceremoniously unveiled the Delta State High Court Complex in Asaba and initiated the distribution of 20 Toyota Prado Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) to judges in the state.
Jonathan praised Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for his unwavering dedication to the infrastructural advancement of Delta State and his steadfast commitment to the continuation of projects initiated by previous administrations.
“Certain projects are pivotal to the advancement and growth of the state, and it is expected that any incoming government will uphold them. You have demonstrated this admirably. Undoubtedly, this judiciary headquarters stands as one of the most exceptional in the country, and I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Governor and the judiciary of Delta State for this remarkable endeavor.”
Jonathan also commended Governor Oborevwori for his judicious act of returning unutilized funds exceeding N500 million to the state coffers during his tenure as Speaker of the State House of Assembly.
He remarked, “It is indeed rare for a public official, let alone a civil servant, to refund funds to the government. Your ability to do so as a Speaker exemplifies a high level of integrity and trustworthiness.”
“Please, continue to administer the state’s resources in a prudent manner and allocate funds in ways that positively impact the populace.”
The former President urged the people of Delta State to continue supporting the Governor for the holistic development of the state, emphasizing, “Some individuals believe in undermining the government for political gain. However, when efforts are concentrated on bringing down a governor or a president for political reasons, the state or the nation suffers. The Governor or President manages public resources, and it is imperative that everyone supports their success for the collective growth of our nation.”
Earlier, the Governor emphasized that the completion of the High Court building aligns with his commitment to finalizing projects inherited from preceding administrations.
Oborevwori highlighted his motivation to complete the project, citing the absence of a suitable building for the judiciary, the only arm of government without such a facility.
He affirmed that the distribution of 20 Toyota Prado SUVs to judges in the state fulfilled a promise made and upheld.
Expressing gratitude to the former President for gracing the inauguration of the project, he lauded Jonathan as an exceptional Nigerian patriot, statesman, and outstanding leader both in and out of office.
The Commissioner for Housing, Mr. Godknows Angele, detailed that the building comprises five floors, six courtrooms, six conference halls, six witness waiting rooms, six holding cells, six secretarial offices, two general conference halls, a ceremonial hall, multi-purpose halls, lawyers’ lounge, judges’ lounge, VIP lounge, and a library, among other facilities.
The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Olukayode Ariwoola, represented by the Presiding Judge of the Court of Appeal, Asaba Division, Bolaji Yusuf, commended the government for establishing the edifice as a sanctuary of justice in the state.
He expressed optimism that other states would follow Delta State’s lead by providing similarly magnificent temples of justice for the administration of justice across the country.
Additionally, Chief Judge of Delta State, Theresa Diai, expressed gratitude to Governor Oborevwori and his predecessors for finalizing the modern edifice, hailing it as a splendid testament to the unwavering commitment to justice and excellence in the judiciary.
She highlighted that the new High Court Complex is equipped with internet access and other essential Information Technology (IT) amenities to facilitate the e-filing of court documents and e-payments for court services.
