By 2001, five additional divisions were established: Nembe, Ogbia, Oporoma, Amassoma, Kaiama, and Ekeremor, with designated places of session across the state.
A notable development occurred in 2007 with the creation of the Customary Court of Appeal, marking a significant milestone in Bayelsa’s judicial progress.
Key duties include: The Chief Judge holds the most superior position in the judiciary of Bayelsa State, independent of years of service in the High Court.
As mandated by the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), the Chief Judge is responsible for administering the Oath of Office to the Governor[4] during the official inauguration ceremony.
"[6] This provision ensures that the swearing-in process is conducted by a high-ranking judicial officer, reinforcing the legal and constitutional legitimacy of the officeholder’s mandate.
In cases where the Chief Judge or the President of the Customary a court of appeal are both unavailable due to illness or incapacitation, the Attorney General may administer the oath of office to the Governor.