Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, has advised spouses especially those serving in critical professions such as judges to always accept official decisions by their partners.

Mr Nwifuru gave the advice while swearing-in a new judge of the state customary court of appeal, Justice Linda Ogodo in Abakaliki.

The governor said that for Nigeria’s justice system to be respected, those in the temple of justice must be firm in their decisions.

Nwifuru also advised relatives and friends of judges to avoid interference in their professional duties, saying that rule of law and quality justice delivery are essential for the development of any nation.

“The world over, rule of law is a critical factor for investors, while taking business decisions and that is why we are hammering on factors that adversely affect it,” he said.

Mr Nwifuru, however, told the husband of the new judge, who is a solicitor in the state, to accept judgments from his wife especially when such are not in his favour.

The governor who described Ms Ogodo’s husband as a `tough’ solicitor, urged him to realise that his wife’s level had changed.

He said, “I believe in professionalism and decency which have distinguished Ebonyi judges from their peers. Your husband should realise that his wife is now a judge, and her judicial decisions and pronouncements shall now attract more public attention and scrutiny. Women value their professional respect very much and Justice Ogodo has been outstanding before now.’’

He noted that judges in the state had succeeded because their spouses offer them opportunities to perform their duties well.

He stated, “An example was in 2017 when a female judge whose husband was a government appointee did not allow family sentiment to determine the outcome of our matter against the then House of Assembly speaker. The new judge’s husband should therefore accept any unfavourable judgment from her because others in such shoes, felt the same way.’’

Mr Nwifuru congratulated the judge on her elevation and urged her not to disappoint the state including those who repose confidence in her.

He stated, “You should not take the position of your husband in matters but that of the law.

“The state chief judge can confirm that I do not have interest in matters before our courts. No government official should therefore have interest in any matter when I do not have.’’

Ms Ogodo in her response, thanked the governor and all those who contributed immensely in making the occasion successful.

(NAN)