BY PATRICIA OGBECHE
The Chief Judge of Cross River State, His Lordship, Hon. Justice Akon B. Ikpeme, on Monday, 15 December 2025, swore in Senator Professor Stephen Odey as a Notary Public in a formal ceremony held at the Chief Judge’s Conference Room, High Court Complex, Judiciary Headquarters, Calabar.
The appointment is considered a significant boost to Cross River State’s and Nigeria’s legal authentication framework, as the inclusion of Senator Odey underscores the calibre of professionals entrusted with the responsibility of authenticating legal documents and preventing fraud nationwide.
While taking the oath of office, Senator Odey expressed deep appreciation to the Chief Judge for the honour and confidence reposed in him.
“I wish to sincerely thank My Lord for what I consider a most gracious and thoughtful recommendation. The journey to this point was by no means an easy one. It was a long and demanding process that culminated at the Supreme Court, and today, Your Lordship has seen fit to swear me in as a Notary Public. I am profoundly grateful for this confidence reposed in me,” he said.
Senator Odey assured the court and all dignitaries present that he would discharge his duties with the highest sense of integrity and professionalism.
“I wish to assure My Lord and all the distinguished personalities present here today that this trust will not be breached. I remain fully committed to diligence, integrity, and professional excellence. Over the years, I have contributed significantly to the development of our legal jurisprudence, and I intend to continue in that tradition,” he added.
He further pledged to uphold the nobility of the legal profession, noting that he stands on the path already laid by his senior colleagues.
In his remarks, the Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Akon B. Ikpeme, reminded Senator Odey of the weight of responsibility that comes with the oath, noting that many eyes were now upon him.
“Today, you have been administered the oath of a legal practitioner in the presence of witnesses from the legal profession, public service, and your immediate family. Many eyes are upon you. You have performed exceptionally well thus far, particularly from the perspective of the legal profession, and I wish you many more achievements in the years ahead,” the Chief Judge stated.
Justice Ikpeme also encouraged lawyers to aspire to the highest ranks of the profession, particularly the prestigious rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), describing it as a demanding but rewarding journey that requires dedication and hard work.
Urging Senator Odey to deploy his expertise for the greater good of society, the Chief Judge described the appointment as “a new seal, a new duty, and a new chapter where integrity becomes a signature and service becomes a silent oath.”
The ceremony was witnessed by government officials, senior members of the Bar and Bench, public office holders, family members, and friends.
The occasion concluded with a grand reception at Hugis Luxury, where Senator Odey also marked his birthday. Guests gathered to celebrate with him, culminating in the cutting of his birthday cake in an atmosphere of goodwill and celebration.
