GOVERNOR Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, yesterday attended a civic reception in honour of former Chief Judge of Gombe State, Justice Joseph Ahmed Awak who exited the service in October last year after attaining mandatory retirement age.
Speaking at the occasion, Governor Inuwa described Justice Joseph Ahmed Awak as a great son of Gombe State who uplifted the name of the state and lived an exemplary life worthy of emulation.
The governor congratulated the former Chief Judge for a peaceful retirement, lauding his contributions to the growth of the Judiciary and development of justice system in the state and the country in general.
Speaking on the unprecedented achievements of his administration, Inuwa said his government’s drive to vigorously pursue development in all nooks and crannies of Gombe State was born out of pure zeal and commitment to meet the yearnings and aspirations of the citizenry, promising to maintain the tempo.
“Our works are all encompassing and are everywhere; we don’t discriminate based on religion, region, or ethnic differences. Therefore, people should unite and live in peace and harmony with one another.
“We will continue to execute developmental projects and community services with all seriousness.
We are working tirelessly towards meeting community needs all over the state”, he added.
He used the occasion to call on eligible voters to collect their PVCs and come out enmasse on election day and peacefully elect competent leaders who will consolidate on the continuous process of development.
Governor Inuwa was conferred with the traditional title of ‘Zumuncin Awak’ by the District Head of Awak in recognition of his enormous contributions to the development of the community.
Handing over the letter of appointment, the district Head of Awak, Muhammad Adamu Kuge said, “This title was awarded to His Excellency in recognition of his selfless service to Awak community and Gombe State in General”
Ealier in his welcome address, the Chairman of Awak Community Development Association, Abdulhamid Muhammed appreciated governor Inuwa for accepting their invitation, describing it as honour done to the whole community.
The governor witnessed the semi finals and finals of the traditional wrestling competition organised annually in the community which attracted participants from different parts of Gombe State and beyond.
Governor Inuwa dolled out 1 million Naira contribution for the development of the cultural activity.
Also featured during the event were traditional dances by different cultural groups who displayed their talent in traditional Awak attire and dancing styles.
Other notable personalities present at the event include: Chief Judge of Gombe State, Justice Halima S. Mohammed, Secretary to the State Government, Prof Ibrahim Abubakar Njodi, Former Chief Judges; Muazu Abdulkadir Pindiga and Akila Y. Heman, Barrister Joshua Lidani who acted as the Chairman of the Occasion, Dr. Jamilu Isiyaka Gwamna, Dr. Bala Bello Tinka, Director General of APC Campaign Council, Barr. Zubair Muhammad Umar as well as other stalwarts, top government functionaries and Judiciary juggernauts.