The Akwa Ibom State Judiciary has generated a total of N437.45 million in revenue within the period under review, far exceeding its approved revenue target of N96.5 million, a development that underscores improved efficiency and accountability in the administration of justice in the state.
The Chief Judge of Akwa Ibom State, Justice Ekaete Fabian Obot, disclosed this while presenting an account of the activities and financial performance of the judiciary, noting that the impressive revenue generation is a result of deliberate reforms and enhanced administrative measures introduced to block leakages and improve service delivery.
Justice Obot, who gave a comprehensive overview of the judiciary’s operations, said the state government has also been supportive in terms of capital releases, revealing that N250 million was released for capital projects in April 2026, following a similar release of N250 million in September 2025.
According to her, the funds released by the state government have helped the judiciary to execute critical projects and improve its infrastructure, thereby creating a more conducive environment for the dispensation of justice and enhancing the overall performance of judicial officers and support staff across the state.
She added that beyond capital releases, the state government had also provided funds to cater for other essential needs of the judiciary, including the payment of robe allowances for judicial officers, which she described as necessary for maintaining the dignity and decorum of the bench.
The Chief Judge further stated that funds were also made available for Easter packages for staff and judicial officers, a gesture which she said has boosted morale and demonstrated the government’s recognition of the hard work and sacrifices of those who work in the justice sector.
One of the major highlights of the support received, according to Justice Obot, is the funding for the installation of Artificial Intelligence, AI, recording systems in all High Courts across Akwa Ibom State, a development she described as a significant step towards modernising court proceedings and improving accuracy in record keeping.
She explained that the introduction of AI recording systems will not only enhance efficiency and transparency in court proceedings but will also reduce the delays associated with manual recording, improve the quality of judgments and make the justice delivery system more in line with global best practices.
Justice Obot commended the state government for its continued support to the judiciary, noting that such interventions have contributed immensely to the stability and progress recorded in the justice sector, and have enabled the judiciary to perform its constitutional duties effectively.
However, the Chief Judge pointed out that despite these positive developments, the judiciary was yet to receive funds for the settlement of its outstanding liabilities for the second, third and fourth quarters of 2026, a situation she said has created some financial constraints in the day-to-day operations of the arm of government.
She explained that these liabilities include payments for various services, maintenance of court facilities, outstanding obligations to contractors and other operational expenses that are crucial for the smooth running of the judiciary, and appealed for their prompt release to enable the judiciary meet its commitments.
Justice Obot also used the opportunity to draw attention to the accommodation challenge facing the Judicial Service Commission, which she said has been operating from a rented and now dilapidated facility for the past 39 years, describing the situation as unacceptable for an institution that plays a vital role in the justice system.
She called on the state government to consider the provision of a befitting secretariat for the Commission, stressing that a permanent and well-equipped secretariat would not only improve staff productivity but also enhance the image and efficiency of the Commission in carrying out its statutory responsibilities.
According to her, the lack of a befitting secretariat has affected the Commission’s operations over the years, with staff working under difficult conditions and the facility itself becoming increasingly unsafe and unsuitable for official business, thereby necessitating urgent government intervention.
The Chief Judge therefore urged for continued and increased government support to enable the judiciary meet its financial obligations, sustain its operations, execute its capital projects and improve the overall administration of justice in Akwa Ibom State for the benefit of all citizens.
She reiterated the commitment of the judiciary to upholding the rule of law, ensuring speedy dispensation of justice and maintaining its independence, while also assuring that the arm of government will continue to manage its resources judiciously and accountably in the interest of the state.
Stakeholders who were present at the briefing commended Justice Obot for her transparent leadership and for the progress recorded under her watch, expressing hope that the state government will respond positively to the appeals made, particularly with regards to outstanding liabilities and the provision of a permanent secretariat for the Judicial Service Commission.
