Rivers State Governor Calls For Judicial Independence, Accountability At Legal Year Opening

Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has urged judicial officers and legal practitioners to strengthen public trust in the Judiciary by remaining dutiful and committed to the fair dispensation of justice. Governor Fubara made this call during the Special Court Session held to mark the opening of the 2024/2025 Legal Year at the Rivers State High Court in Port Harcourt on Thursday, October 17.

In his address, Governor Fubara emphasized that the Judiciary must remain independent, fearless, and free from external pressures in order to fulfill its role as a key partner in promoting security and progress in society. “The Judiciary must always stand on the side of the law, no matter the pressure,” the governor said, adding that it is widely regarded as the “last hope of the common man.”

Fubara highlighted the shared responsibility between the Executive and Judiciary in upholding the rule of law, noting that judicial independence is essential for the sustenance of democracy. “No society can progress without an independent, free, and fearless Judiciary,” he asserted.

Lauding the Rivers State Judiciary for its stability and independence, Governor Fubara praised judicial officers for their dedication to their duties and contributions to the state’s advancement. However, he stressed the need for continuous improvement in ensuring universal access to justice and the speedy resolution of cases to maintain public trust.

Governor Fubara outlined his administration’s efforts to support the Judiciary, including providing new vehicles for magistrates, appointing seven new judges, and advancing the construction of a new High Court complex. He also committed to further renovations and improvements in court facilities.

In his remarks, Rivers State Chief Judge, Justice Simeon Amadi, reaffirmed the Judiciary’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and noted the impressive progress in case management, with over 22,000 cases disposed of in the past year.

Senior lawyers, including Attorney General Dagogo Israel Iboroma, SAN, and Chief Onueze Okocha, SAN, also spoke at the event, addressing various legal reforms and challenges. The session closed with a call for continuous collaboration to ensure an efficient and just legal system in the state.