The Benue State Governor, Rev Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has sworn in Justice Christine Ende as a judge of the Benue State High Court.
The event took place on Tuesday at the Old Banquet Hall of the Benue State Government House.
He described the appointment of the new justice as a significant milestone in the administration of justice in the state.
Gov. Alia stated that the appointment was a recognition of Justice Ende’s distinguished career spanning over three decades in legal practice, judicial administration, human rights advocacy, and public service.
He noted that the new judge’s wealth of experience, including her service at African Bank Plc, the National Human Rights Commission, and as Deputy Chief Registrar and Admiralty Marshal of the Federal High Court, attests to her competence and preparedness for the bench.
Gov Alia revealed that the appointment increases the number of judges in Benue State from 32 to 33, while raising the number of female judges from 13 to 14, describing the development as a reflection of his administration’s commitment to inclusivity, equal opportunity, and women’s advancement in leadership.
He said sustainable development can only be achieved when women are given equal opportunities to contribute their talents and expertise to nation-building.
Gov Alia urged Justice Ende to uphold the Constitution and discharge her duties with integrity, independence, courage, and fairness, emphasising that the judiciary remains the last hope of the common man.
According to a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Tersoo Kula, Gov Alia commended the National Judicial Council, the Judicial Service Commission, and the leadership of the Benue State Judiciary for their roles in the appointment, while assuring continued government support for the judiciary in strengthening justice delivery and the rule of law.
Alia congratulated Justice Ende on her elevation and wished her a successful and impactful judicial career.
