Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has voiced a stern warning to judges and lawyers, emphasizing the importance of maintaining justice in their rulings and decisions. He cautioned them against accepting bribes or being influenced to issue conflicting judgments, which, according to him, jeopardize the integrity of the legal system. The governor’s remarks were made in response to recent judicial decisions that almost disrupted the local government elections in Rivers State. These judgments, Fubara noted, were clear examples of how some in the legal profession have allowed external pressures to interfere with the administration of justice.
Fubara expressed frustration over the conduct of some legal professionals, accusing them of knowing the law but deliberately twisting it to serve the interests of those paying them. He criticized those who go public with their legal interpretations to justify actions that contradict the principles of justice, all for financial gain. According to the governor, while the legal community should be upholding the rule of law, some members have chosen to turn the law upside down to please their “paymasters,” leading to a breakdown in the judicial system.
The governor highlighted that legal matters involving the administration of governance in Rivers State fall under the jurisdiction of the state high court. He emphasized that, regardless of the involvement of federal institutions such as INEC (Independent National Electoral Commission) or the police, such cases should be handled at the state level. He pointed out that, despite not being a lawyer, he understands that justice is about doing what is right and warned those who compromise their integrity that they will eventually face divine judgment.
Governor Fubara’s comments were made during the opening ceremony of the 2024/2025 Legal Year and a re-dedication service held at the Cathedral Church of St. Paul’s, Anglican Communion, Diobu, located in Port Harcourt. Addressing the audience, Fubara spoke about the critical role the judiciary plays in society. He described the judiciary as a sacred institution where justice should always be served fairly and impartially. He urged judges to remember that their decisions have far-reaching consequences and should be made with the utmost care.
He did not mince words in reminding the judges of the immense responsibility they bear. “Judges, you are the guardians of justice that the public looks up to,” he stated. “Your duty is to stand firm and defend the truth. If you fail to do so, there will be serious repercussions, both here and beyond.” The governor echoed sentiments from a preacher at the event, who had earlier warned that anyone who acts unjustly while administering the law will face severe consequences.
Fubara went on to commend the Rivers State judiciary, particularly the High Court divisions, for their unwavering support for his administration. He acknowledged that the judiciary had played a crucial role in keeping his government functioning despite opposition. The governor alluded to the many challenges that judicial officers in the state had faced, including threats, physical assaults, and false petitions aimed at coercing them into making biased decisions. Despite these pressures, he praised those in the judiciary who have continued to stand on the side of justice and have refused to compromise their values.
The governor encouraged judicial officers to remain steadfast in their commitment to the truth. “To those of you who continue to be targeted because you are doing the right thing, stay strong,” he advised. “Persecution is inevitable when you are upholding justice. But remember, no matter how difficult it gets, this phase will not last forever.”
Fubara reassured the judiciary that they had his full support and confidence. He expressed his belief that under the leadership of the Chief Judge of Rivers State, Justice Simeon Amadi, the judiciary would continue to achieve great successes during his administration. He stressed the importance of having strong, independent institutions to promote democracy and good governance. Without robust institutions, Fubara warned, society will eventually collapse, and the citizens will suffer the consequences.
In a broader reflection, Fubara emphasized that the weakening of institutions, particularly the judiciary, would lead to chaos. He argued that when justice is compromised and the law is manipulated, the stability of the entire society is put at risk. The governor’s speech underscored the importance of having a legal system that is free from external influences and remains focused on upholding justice for the benefit of all.
During the same event, Bishop Wisdom Budu Ihunwo of the Diocese of Niger Delta North delivered a sermon titled “Called to Uphold Justice.” The bishop warned that Nigeria’s judiciary was contributing to the country’s decline, largely due to the conflicting judgments coming from courts of equal standing. These inconsistencies, he noted, were not just technical errors but deliberate acts that undermined leadership and threatened national unity.
Bishop Ihunwo condemned those who exploit the judicial system for personal gain, cautioning that such individuals would eventually face divine punishment, regardless of how long it takes. He stressed that justice is not something to be bought or sold and that those who manipulate the law for their own benefit are endangering the future of the country.
Both Governor Fubara and Bishop Ihunwo shared a common message: the pursuit of justice should be at the heart of every judicial decision. They warned that failure to uphold the law with integrity would not only harm individuals but could also lead to broader societal decay. Their words served as a powerful reminder to those in the legal profession that their actions have lasting impacts, and that they will ultimately be held accountable for the justice or injustice they deliver.