Governor Simon Lalong administering oath of office on Justice Dapit.
By M. Peter – Jos.
Governor Simon Lalong on Wednesday sworn in Hon. Justice Patrick Dapit, as the Acting President of the Customary Court of Appeal, Plateau state, with a charge that he should work towards deepening the rule of law and also ensuring that the courts administer justice in accordance with the constitution.
Lalong who presided over the oath taking ceremony at the Government House, Little Rayfield, Jos said Justice Dapit is taking over at a time when there is a greater need to strengthen the judiciary in order for it to perform more efficiently stressing, “The Judiciary remains a strong pillar of the Nigerian society and of its democracy. As such, the people will continue to look up to judicial officers, especially Judges for justice, equity and the triumph of truth over falsehood.”
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“My experience as a Lawyer, a former Legislator and now Governor, has strengthened my belief that the sanctity, integrity and independence of the Judiciary must be defended at all costs, as anything to the contrary will lead to chaos, anomie and instability,” and assured that his administration will continue to “work with the Judiciary and Legislature to ensure that Courts are made conducive for judges and staff as well as all those who come to access justice or other services.”
In his reaction, Justice Dapit expressed gratitude to God for the opportunity to serve the people at this time, saying he is prepared to ensure that justice is given to everybody as he was fully aware that “The Customary Court is a grassroots court that the people look up to for seeking redress,” adding he will do his best to guide his colleagues and staff of the court towards performing their duties with the fear of God and obedience to the Constitution.
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Justice Dapit was born on 15th June 1959 and obtained his Law Degree in 1985 from the University of Jos. He joined the services of the Plateau State judiciary in 1990 after practicing as a lawyer for four years. He was appointed a judge of the Customary Court of Appeal in 2013.
