Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem has been sworn as the new President of the Court of Appeal by the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Ibrahim Muhammad on Friday with a challenging duty of maintaining the credibility and integrity of the appellate court.
Speaking at the swearing in ceremony which held at the Supreme Court complex in Abuja, Justice Muhammad admonished the Justice Dongban-Mensem to live up to expectations by maintaining cordial relationship with her colleagues on the bench of the Court of Appeal and upholding the rule of law.
By stating that the appellate court has the largest number of Justices in the country, the CJN stressed the need for the president to be effective in the disposition of her duties. He counseled her in ensuring regular meetings with presiding justices in all divisions of the court as well as other justices to enable them understand challenges that may face the court.
The CJN further advised her to continue with her good character, behaviour and hardwork. He posited that;
“From my personal experience, workload in the Court of Appeal, especially in the divisions is the highest. It is a home of work, it is a home of cooperation, but with your experience, hard work and zeal, you will not find your new status difficult.”
“If you sustain your good character and conduct, your tenure will definitely be an excellent one. Try to be yourself and do not allow others derail you. Remain what we know you for,” the CJN added.
Justice Dongban-Mensem expressed joy over her confirmation as the substantive President of the Court of Appeal during her conversation with journalists.
She said she felt honoured and at the same time challenged to be appointed into the office of the President of the Court of Appeal, based on the recommendation of the National Judicial Council (NJC) and the approval of President Muhammadu Buhari.
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