Judiciary Must Remain Fearless and Independent, Key to Progress – Fubara
Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has called on judicial officers and legal practitioners to strengthen public confidence in the judiciary by upholding justice and remaining independent and fearless. Speaking at the 2024/2025 Legal Year opening session at the Rivers State High Court in Port Harcourt on Thursday, Fubara stressed that the judiciary is an essential ally in ensuring human security and societal progress.
According to a statement from his Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, Fubara emphasized the need for the judiciary to remain impartial and uphold the law, even under pressure, as it serves as the last hope for the common man. He underscored the shared responsibility between the executive and judiciary in ensuring the rule of law and sustainable peace.
“The judiciary plays a vital role in our collective quest for human security and progress. No society can thrive without an independent and fearless judiciary, which also safeguards democracy,” Fubara remarked.
He commended the Rivers State judiciary for its stability, effectiveness, and independence, praising the efforts of magistrates, judicial officers, and other stakeholders in strengthening the legal system. However, Fubara urged continuous improvements to ensure swift and equitable access to justice, assuring that his administration remains committed to supporting the judiciary.
“We have respected and will continue to respect the judiciary’s autonomy. We have also provided resources to enable magistrates and judges to discharge their duties securely and without interference,” Fubara said, highlighting initiatives such as providing new vehicles for magistrates, appointing new judges, and constructing a new High Court complex.
Chief Judge of Rivers State, Justice Simeon Amadi, also addressed the session, highlighting the judiciary’s accomplishments, including the disposal of over 22,000 cases in the past year and generating more than N525 million in revenue. Justice Amadi reaffirmed the judiciary’s commitment to promoting the rule of law in the state.