Photo: Lalong presenting portrait to the judge
Glitz, glamour, entertainment and tributes marked the Thanksgiving Mass and Grand Reception in honour of the President, Court of Appeal Hon. Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem as the activities came to a climax with a dinner at the New Government House, Little Rayfield Jos.
The grand reception organised by the Plateau State Government was preceded by a Thanksgiving Mass which took place at the St. Monica’s Catholic Church in Rantiya, Jos.
The event attended by the cream of the legal profession from the Bench and the Bar featured the display of the rich cultural heritage of Plateau State with performances of some exotic dances and displays by reknown cultural groups in the State.
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Governor Lalong said at the dinner that the State Government decided to celebrate Justice Dongban-Mensem not only because she is from Plateau State, but simply to demonstrate that charity really begins at home and also buttress that her journey to the top started from the State.
He said “we also want her to know that we appreciate the enormity of the burden laid upon her shoulders in leading her colleagues at the Court of Appeal in the task of delivering justice and interpreting the laws of the land. Ours is to assure her that we shall continue to stand behind her and pray for her to discharge this duty with excellence and the fear of God”.
Lalong stated that he had no doubt that she will make her family, Plateau State, Nigeria and above all, God Almighty proud as many who have known her over the years attest to her passion for doing the right thing as well as disdain for cutting corners.
Justice Monica Dongban said she was highly overwhelmed by the solidarity and goodwill shown her by the Government and people of Plateau State, revered members of the bench and bar, her colleagues, schoolmates, and well wishers who have continued to pray for her for wisdom and courage to carry out her duties with the fear of God.
She promised to do her best and make Nigerians proud as well as usher a new era of service delivery, judicial integrity and transparency.
Justice Raphael Agbo of the Court of Appeal and Justice C.C. Nweze of the Supreme Court said the entire Judiciary is proud to have Justice Monica in its fold and will continue to benefit from her forthrightness, passion and experience.
Chief Judge of Plateau State Justice Sati Dakwak said having started from a humble beginnings in the Plateau State Judiciary, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem is an inspiration for the Judiciary and a source of motivation for the younger generation.
NBA Chairman Plateau Yakubu Bawa said Justice Dongban represents the finest of the Nigerian bench with a rich background of integrity, incorruptibility, intelligence and hardwork. He assured that the Nigerian bar will work closely with Justice Monica and the Justices of the Court of Appeal to strengthen justice delivery and the rule of law.