By Christiana Nnaemeka
The Imo State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Hon. Paul Obinatu, has inaugurated 74 new members into the Justice of the Peace (JP) cadre in the state.
The ceremony, which also featured the presentation of certificates, was held on Wednesday at Rockview Hotel, Owerri. It had the theme “Restorative Justice and Community Engagement” and attracted dignitaries from across the state.
In his keynote address, Hon. Obinatu described the inauguration as a reaffirmation of the state’s commitment to justice, peace, and social order.
“This event is more than a formal gathering; it is a reaffirmation of our shared commitment to justice, peace, and order,” he said. “The welfare of society depends not only on its institutions of justice but also on the character, conscience, and compassion of the people who serve it.”
He expressed appreciation to Governor Hope Uzodimma for approving the exercise, noting that the governor’s support reflects his interest in strengthening peace and justice delivery in communities across Imo State.
Quoting Reinhold Niebuhr, the Attorney General emphasized the human dimension of justice and peace: “Man’s capacity for justice makes democracy possible; but man’s inclination to injustice makes democracy necessary.”
Obinatu outlined the legal responsibilities of JPs as provided under Section 11 of the Imo State Magistrate Court Law, Cap. 82, Laws of Eastern Nigeria 1963 (as amended), which includes – to preserve peace and order, suppress riots and disperse disorderly assemblies, seek police assistance when necessary, issue criminal and civil summonses and warrants, remand or grant bail to accused persons, among others
He also referenced Sections 54(2) and 55 of the Imo State Administration of Criminal Justice Law, 2020, which further empower JPs in search warrant administration.
The Attorney General highlighted the theme of the event, stressing that restorative justice prioritizes reconciliation, healing, and accountability over punitive measures.
“Justice must be both legal and humane. You, our newly inaugurated JPs, must serve as bridges between the law and the people,” he charged.
He noted that the office of JP is strategic and far from ceremonial, enumerating their duties as – early conflict intervention, promoting reconciliation and peaceful coexistence, strengthening community trust in the justice system, supporting courts and law enforcement, maintaining impartiality and integrity, performing statutory judicial functions.
He described the role as a “sacred call to duty,” urging the appointees to serve with fairness, empathy, discipline, and courage.
Earlier in her welcome remarks, the Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, Barr. Gloria Egwuagu, described the event as a gathering of individuals passionate about peace and justice.
She said the chosen theme reflects the need for stronger community bonds through listening, wisdom, and peaceful conflict resolution.
“This honour is more than a title; it is a call to service; to be the voice when conflicts arise, and ensure their is peace in the communities.,” she added.
One of the honorees, His Royal Majesty Eze Dr. Matthew Chiedozie Nwokoma Okome IV of Umuokanne Ancient Kingdom, expressed joy over the recognition.
He noted that the selection came as a surprise, saying, “I didn’t apply for the award. They informed me that I had been nominated. This shows that as you work, people are observing.”
The traditional ruler, who also serves as Chairman of Peace, Security, and Conflict Resolution in the Imo State Council of Traditional Rulers, as well as Chairman of Ethics in the South East Council of Traditional Rulers, pledged not to betray the confidence reposed in him.
Participants also received lectures on “Restorative Justice and Community Engagement” delivered by the Director of Public Prosecutions, I. I. Amadi, Esq., and on community engagement strategies by the Solicitor General, Barr. Gloria Egwuagu.
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