
AG, Ekemejero Ohwovoriole SAN the Court of Appeal, Asaba during the valedictory session in honour of retiring Hon Justice Mbata
* Pours encomiums as Justice Mbata retires from Bench
By Onoriode Etatsemi, Asaba
Delta State Governor,, Rt. Hon. (Elder) Sheriff Oborevwori, has asserted that a strong and independent judiciary is one of the key policies of his administration’s MORE Agenda.
The governor’s assertion was contained in a statement he made in Asaba during a valedictory court session held in honour of the retiring Hon. Justice Ita George Mbaba, JCA, at the Asaba Division of the Court of Appeal.
Represented by the State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Ekemejero Ohwovoriole, SAN, Governor Oborevwori emphasized that judicial independence is essential for maintaining peace and justice in the state.
He further stated that his administration remains committed to driving progress and development through the MORE Agenda, adding that the state was honoured to host the retiring Hon. Justice Ita George Mbata, JCA.
The governor highlighted significant advancements in the state’s judicial system, noting that the government had undertaken initiatives to modernize the sector.
“These efforts include
enhancing infrastructure to provide a conducive working environment for judicial officers, among other improvements.” The Governor stated.
Earlier in his address, the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Ekemejero Ohwovoriole, SAN, described the court valedictory session as a solemn and special occasion for reflection and an opportunity to acknowledge the outstanding contributions of those who have dedicated their lives to the legal profession.
Ohwovoriole praised Hon. Justice Mbata for exemplifying judicial integrity and impartiality, qualities that earned him the deep respect and admiration of his peers, legal practitioners, and the wider public.
He noted that Justice Mbata’s reputation for incorruptibility and adherence to ethical principles solidified his standing as a pillar of judicial excellence during his tenure on the Bench.
Reflecting on Justice Mbata’s distinguished career as an appellate judge, Ohwovoriole remarked that he adjudicated numerous appeals across diverse areas of law, significantly influencing legal jurisprudence in the country.
Beyond his legal acumen and literary prowess, Justice Mbata was described as a man of grace, humility, and soft-spoken wisdom.
The Attorney-General emphasized that he was firm yet gentle, decisive yet understanding, and learned yet always willing to listen.
As Justice Mbata retires meritoriously from the Bench, Ohwovoriole reasserted that his legacy remains firmly established in the annals of Nigerian legal history.
He noted that his contributions to law, justice, and judicial reform would continue to inspire future generations.
In his remarks, Hon. Justice Ita G. Mbaba, PJCA, OFR, expressed gratitude to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and the people of Delta State for the cooperation and support he enjoyed while serving in the state.