Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has urged judges to stand firm in upholding justice and protecting the people.
He made this call during his speech at the 2024/2025 Legal Year and Re-Dedication Service on Thursday, where he reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the judiciary in its pursuit of truth and fairness.
Governor Fubara emphasized the vital role of the judiciary, describing it as the “sacred temple of justice” and warning judges to be impartial and courageous when delivering justice. He said, “Let me say it here so that you will understand: Judges, you are the God that we are seeing. Your position is to stand and defend us. Your position is to look at whoever and tell the person the truth. Because if you don’t do it here, you will have a big question to answer.”
He also criticized certain legal experts for putting their personal interests ahead of the truth. The Governor said, “Some of you, you say you are legal luminaries. You know the truth, but you will go on air just to pacify your pay masters to turn the law upside down… It is a State’s matter! I am not a lawyer, but I know that one. And you stand and say you are doing the right thing? God will judge you.”
Governor Fubara expressed his gratitude to the Rivers State Judiciary, particularly the High Court Divisions, for their steadfast support of his administration, despite the challenges faced by judicial officers. He acknowledged the threats and physical assaults some judges have encountered but encouraged them to remain brave. “Those of you who are doing the right thing that are being fought from all sides, be courageous. Very soon, this whole thing will be over. Nothing lasts forever,” he said.
The Governor also called for stronger state institutions, stressing that weakening them harms society as a whole. He said, “What we are praying for in this country is institutional strength and not individual strength. Institutional strength is the only thing that will bring development in this country… If this institution is destroyed, when another person comes in tomorrow, it is the same thing that will happen.”
Governor Fubara concluded by promising to defend justice in Rivers State, saying, “Even if I have my last breath, I will defend the cause of justice in this State.”
