A former head of Service of the Federation (HSoF), Mrs Winifred Oyo-Ita, has called on Nigerians to place their trust and confidence in the country’s judiciary rather than rushing to condemn it.
She stressed that the judiciary remains “the last hope of the common man” and warned against jumping to conclusions that undermine public confidence in the courts.
Oyo-Ita made the remarks while speaking with journalists at a reception/prayer service organised by her kinsmen and family in Calabar over the weekend.
The event was held to celebrate her homecoming following her retirement from public service.
Oyo who was absolved by the court of any wrong doing after a protracted court battle with her accusers said, “Nigerians should also trust the judiciary, learn to be patient to know the truth, and not jump to conclusions,” she said. “I think that a lot of lessons have been learned on both sides.”
She also urged that more attention be given to civil servants, describing them as “the real engine room for the implementation of government policies.”
According to her, improved welfare and motivation for civil servants are essential for effective governance.
“I believe more should be done for civil servants to encourage them, especially on welfare,” she stated. “I am happy to hear that recently the government has given approval to their allowances and improved their salary structure.
“This should continue.” She encouraged her former colleagues to keep giving their best, noting that their work drives the nation’s progress.
Speaking on her return after 35 years of service, Oyo-Ita expressed gratitude and relief. “I am so happy to be back home. I thank God, my sisters, kids, and everyone who has come to welcome me,” she said.
“We just have to continue trusting the Lord, for I knew that a time like this would come. I knew that the Lord would never leave us nor abandon me. He was certainly going to make a way for me.”
With the election year approaching, she called for peace and unity across the country. “As we are entering into election year, we should be peaceful and prayerful.
This is a very wonderful country with a lot of potential. Let us join hands with one another to pray for whoever wins, for him to lead with peace,” she concluded.
