Aaior K. Comfort
Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has called on judges and lawyers to avoid delivering conflicting rulings, which he says undermine justice and governance. His warning follows conflicting judgments that nearly disrupted the local government election in the state.
Speaking at the 2024/2025 Legal Year ceremony in Port Harcourt, Fubara criticized legal professionals who compromise their integrity for personal gain. He emphasized the sacred role of the judiciary in upholding justice and urged judges to remain steadfast in truth.
“You are the god that we are seeing. Your position is to stand and defend us,” Fubara stated, adding that those who compromise justice would face severe consequences, both legally and morally.
Fubara praised the Rivers State judiciary, particularly the High Court, for their support in maintaining stability despite external pressures. He acknowledged threats and assaults faced by judicial officers but encouraged them to remain resolute in their pursuit of justice.
In his sermon, Bishop Rt Rev Wisdom Budu Ihunwo echoed the governor’s concerns, highlighting the negative impact of conflicting judgments on Nigeria’s unity and governance. The bishop warned that those responsible for such actions would eventually face divine punishment.
Governor Fubara concluded by emphasizing the need for strong institutions to safeguard democracy and ensure societal prosperity.