The Kogi State Judiciary has added another Notary Public to its ranks following the swearing-in of Iyamoye-born legal practitioner, Barrister Bello Mohammed Musa, at the High Court headquarters in Lokoja.
The oath of office was administered on Wednesday by the Chief Judge of Kogi State, Hon. Justice Josiah Joe Majebi, after the appointment of Barr. Bello as a Notary Public of the Federal Republic of Nigeria was approved by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun.
Speaking during the ceremony, Justice Majebi described the appointment as one that comes with enormous responsibility, stressing that the office of a Notary Public demands integrity, honesty and professionalism.
According to the Chief Judge, the appointment reflects the high standard and credibility of members of the Nigerian Bar Association branches in Kogi State.
“This appointment is a pointer to the fact that our Bar branches in the state are made up of serious-minded professionals. It speaks to our intellectual depth, humility and transparency,” he said.
He warned the newly sworn-in Notary Public against any act capable of tarnishing the image of the legal profession, noting that the office could be withdrawn if abused.
“The oath you have taken today emphasizes the issue of fraud because this is an appointment guided by responsibility. You have automatically become an officer of the Supreme Court of Nigeria. If fraud is involved, the appointment can be terminated and prosecution may follow,” Justice Majebi cautioned.
The Chief Judge further disclosed that Barr. Bello was thoroughly screened before his name was recommended to the Chief Justice of Nigeria and was found worthy based on his conduct, dedication and honesty.
Earlier while presenting the appointee, the Deputy Chief Registrar, Special Duties, Agatha Shankyula Esq., said Barr. Bello is a private legal practitioner with experience in litigation, corporate practice and commercial transactions.
She explained that he obtained his LL.B degree from Kogi State University, Anyigba, before proceeding to the Nigerian Law School where he completed his professional training and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2015.
According to her, Barr. Bello briefly worked with the law firm of J.E. Okodogbe & Co. after completing his National Youth Service before joining Liman Salihu & Co. in Lokoja as counsel in 2017. He currently practices under the name Palace Legal Consult.
She also noted that he served as Secretary of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Lokoja Branch, between 2023 and 2025, adding that he is married with children.
In his remarks, Barr. Bello expressed appreciation to the Chief Justice of Nigeria, the Chief Judge and the judiciary for the confidence reposed in him, pledging to uphold the integrity of the legal profession.
“My Lord, I will not disappoint the judiciary. I see this as an added responsibility to protect the integrity of the profession and contribute my quota decently,” he said.
The swearing-in ceremony was attended by management staff of the High Court of Justice, family members, friends and well-wishers of the new Notary Public.
