Edo State Chief Judge, Justice Joe Acha, has retired from the state judiciary service at the age of 65. The event of his retirement was marked with a valedictory court session held in his honour at the state High Court in Benin.
Speaking at the event, the newly sworn-in acting Chief Judge, Justice Daniel Okungbowa, described Justice Acha as a man of integrity and a jurist of unquestionable reputation. He also added that the retiring Chief Judge was a jurist of steel character, unbendable and uncompromising in dispensing Justice to those who deserved it.
During the retirement ceremony, Prof. Faith Osadolor, the Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary of the state Ministry of Justice, commended the retiring Chief Judge for his virtues of honesty, integrity, uncommon resilience and cerebral sagacity.
In his sermon at the Mass held at St Paul’s Catholic Church, Rev. Fr Edwin Omorogbe remarked that Justice Acha was a devoted Catholic and a Papa knight of the Order of St. Sylvester, and that good people’s sorrow would always turn to joy. He urged the judiciary to do good and feel joy from within.
While thanking former governors Adams Oshiomhole and Lucky Igbinedion and others for their support, Acha was sworn in as acting Chief Judge on May 16, 2021, and was confirmed as Substantive Chief Judge on October 6, 2021.
Justice Acha, who hails from Okpekpe, Etsako East Local Government Area of the state, is the first chief judge from Etsako East. His successor, Justice Okungbowa, was sworn in on Friday by Governor Godwin Obaseki.
In conclusion, Justice Acha’s retirement from service is a testament to his contributions and illustrious career in the judiciary. He has served diligently and distinguished himself in his duties, leaving a remarkable legacy.
