Judge cautions Deltans on criminality

Delta’s Chief Judge, Justice Marshal Umukoro, yesterday, charged people of the state to use the courts to fight criminality and oppression, rather than take the laws into their hands.

Umukoro, who spoke to reporters after declaring open the Magisterial District in Okwe, Oshimili South Local Council of the state, also urged people in the area to allow magistrates posted to the new court discharge their duties, warning that any magistrate caught violating the code of conduct for judicial officers would be punished.

He said: “The establishment of a magistrate court in Okwe is a demonstration of the commitment of government to bring justice closer to the people, create awareness of the law, widen the scope of legal practice, reduce loss of time, widen the revenue base of government, enhance justice delivery and boost economic activities by ensuring there is peace.”

In his address, the state Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Peter Mrakpor, thanked the Chief Judge for his achievements, adding that the government would continue to support and encourage the judiciary.

The chairman, Okwe Development Union, Anslem Mozeah, also commended the Chief Judge, the state government and stakeholders for making the dream of the community a reality.

Promising to co-operate with the court, Mozeah pointed out: “Okwe people are law-abiding and would do everything to create a peaceful atmosphere for all to seek justice.”