Access to justice at the grassroots has been strengthened following the swearing in of 182 customary court members to serve in the 31 local government areas of Akwa Ibom State.

Administering the oath of office, the state Chief Judge, Ekaette Obot urged the customary court members to exhibit a high level of integrity and fairness in the dispensation of justice at the grassroots, saying that justice should be accessible to all.

According to the Chief Judge, 1000 applications were received for appointment as members of the customary courts, adding that the judiciary service commission took time to screen all the applicants before their appointment

The Chief Judge thanked the state government for giving approval for the appointment of the customary court members, saying it was important to make the system work at the local government level. He advised them to be conversant with the relevant laws applicable at the level of governance.

The swearing in ceremony which took place at Judiciary headquarters hall in Uyo, the state capital, attracted judges, family members of those sworn in. It was followed by a training session conducted by experts and proven resource persons.