Governor Ben Ayade of Cross River on Wednesday in Calabar gifted newly-appointed judges brand new SUVs.

The governor handed over the vehicles’ keys to the chief judge, Akon Ikpeme.

“I am here to make a presentation of cars to our judicial officers; the vehicles that befit their status, because I have seen that the Nigerian judiciary is a dependable arm of government,” said Mr Ayade.

The governor told Ms Ikpeme that the presentation of the vehicles afforded him another opportunity to once again thank the judiciary for dispensing justice without fear or favour.

“I am particularly happy and also using this opportunity to express gratitude to the Nigerian judiciary generally for standing on the side of the law,” the Cross River governor explained.

The chief judge commended the governor for the gesture and pledged the judiciary’s commitment to justice delivery.

“Our governor, with joy, on behalf of the judiciary, I receive the keys to these brand new vehicles. I want to say that on behalf of the judiciary, I appreciate this gesture,” she said.

She added, “We have new judges, and you have thought and deemed it fit to give them these cars. We thank you very much, and on our side, we will continue to work for the betterment of the state, as far as justice delivery is concerned.”

(NAN)