Governor of Delta State, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan, has called for continuous independence of the Judiciary to strengthen Nigeria’s democracy.

Dr Uduaghan made the call yesterday when the outgoing Chief Judge of Delta State, Justice Abiodun Smith, paid him a farewell courtesy visit in Asaba.

He observed that the Judiciary deserves to be truly independent in their activities for the growth of the country and congratulated the retiring Chief Judge for a “meritorious service to the people of Delta State and Nigeria.”

“On behalf of government and people of the state, I want to thank God for your life and for the opportunity given to you to serve Delta State at the highest level,” Governor Uduaghan said, adding: “God granted you the good health and wisdom to serve our people.” he

He disclosed that his administration did not interfere in the activities of the judiciary because of his belief that as an arm of government, it should be allowed to discharge its activities effectively.

“Let me commend the Chief Judge and Judges in the state for making it possible for us not to interfere in your work, there is no judgement or decision that you have made that have warranted the government to disagree with you, you have done your work dutifully and diligently even under harsh conditions, we believe in the independence of the judiciary,” the governor stated.

He particularly lauded the judiciary for not been cowed, noting: “Even during the days of kidnapping, when Judges and members of their families were made target, you delivered bold judgement against kidnappers which helped to stem the trend.”

Hon. Justice Smith, who was accompanied by the President, Customary Court of Appeal, Justice. Stella Oghene, and a retinue judges, thanked Governor Uduaghan for giving him the opportunity to serve the state as the Chief Judge.

“The greatest joy in our hearts is that you have allowed us to do our work as judges,” Justice Smith said, assuring that the Judiciary would continue to perform their functions without bias.

•Photo shows, from right; Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State, Hon. Justice Abiodun Smith, Chief Judge of Delta State and Mr. Charles Ajuyah, Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, during a courtesy call on the Governor by the Chief Judge . . . Tuesday in Asaba.