The legal community of Bayelsa State is mourning the passing of Justice Kate Abiri, the immediate past Chief Judge of the state, who breathed her last on August 3rd, 2023, at the age of 65. The news was officially announced by Mr. Amaebi Orukari, the Chief Registrar at the State Judiciary Headquarters, High Court, in a solemn statement released on Thursday.
The statement issued on behalf of the Bayelsa State Judiciary expressed profound sorrow and a deep sense of loss. It was conveyed by Hon. Justice Matilda Abrakasa Ayemieye, who highlighted Justice Kate Abiri’s invaluable contributions to the legal community and her pioneering efforts in information technology and infrastructural development.
Until her untimely demise, Justice Kate Abiri had been battling a brief illness and was undergoing treatment at the Glory Land Hospital, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State. As the immediate past Chief Judge of Bayelsa State, her legacy will be remembered for years to come.
The statement further revealed that the burial arrangements for the late jurist will be made public at a later date, after consultations with her family and close associates.
Justice Kate Abiri, a native of Aleibiri, etched her name in history as a trailblazer. Notably, she held the unique honor of administering the oaths of office to four governors – Timipre Sylva, Seriake Dickson (Bayelsa), Nyesome Wike (Rivers), and Douye Diri (Bayelsa) – during her illustrious career. Additionally, she also swore in two Acting governors, Rt Hon Werinipre Seibarugu and the late Rt Hon Nestor Binabo, both from Bayelsa.
Her remarkable achievements did not end there. Justice Kate Abiri shattered the glass ceiling in Bayelsa State when she became the first female to assume the prestigious position of the substantive Chief Judge. This historic milestone occurred on March 20th, 2008, leaving a lasting impression on the legal landscape of the state.
As the news of her passing spreads across the nation, tributes and condolences pour in from all corners of society, recognizing her dedication, intelligence, and unwavering commitment to upholding justice and the rule of law.
The legacy of Justice Kate Abiri will undoubtedly endure, with her impact on the Bayelsa State Judiciary and the legal community serving as an inspiration for generations to come. The legal fraternity is united in grief, mourning the loss of an exceptional jurist and an outstanding leader.
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