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BY SUNNY A.  DAVID 

Anambra State Chief Judge, Justice Onochie Anyachebelu and members of the State Judiciary have commenced the 2022/2023 Legal Year with Eucharistic thanksgiving service at the Cathedral Church of Saint Faith, Awka.

Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, represented by his Deputy, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim, members of the State Executive Council, Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Right Honourable Uche Okafor, judiciary officers from neighboring States were present at the church service officiated by the Archbishop, Ecclesiastical Province of the Niger and Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Reverend Alexander Ibezim.

In his sermon, Archbishop Ibezim, who acknowledged risky nature of job of members of the legal profession, however charged them to be fair and consistent in delivering justice, thereby honouring God and promoting legal profession.

He wondered why the IPOB Leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, is still in custody after judgement that set him free, reminding all that if judiciary fails, Nigeria has failed.

The Prelate also noted that correctional facilities in the country are full of inmates who do not have the wherewithal to seek justice, calling for attention of members of the legal profession to the challenge.

Acknowledging that Nigeria is doomed if Nigerian judiciary fails, Justice Anyachebelu, on behalf of members of judiciary, promised to keep the flag flying.

In his remark, Governor Soludo said the theme of the event, “Dispensation of Justice in Perilous Times: Challenges and Solutions”, makes it more remarkable, insisting that leaders must speak and act when necessary for the overall benefit of the citizenry.

He expressed hope for a better future for the State and the Nation at large, adding that the coming general elections will provide opportunity to right some wrongs.

Inspection of guard of honour mounted by a detachment of the Nigeria Police and special court session at the Judiciary Headquarters, Awka, were part of activities lined up for the annual event.