Newscenter Media News Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has accused lawyers and judges of distorting the law to “appease paymasters”.
He therefore cautioned judges and lawyers against compromising justice through conflicting court rulings, emphasizing the judiciary’s sacred role in upholding truth and fairness.
Speaking at the 2024/2025 Legal Year opening and re-dedication service in Port Harcourt, on Thursday, Fubara stressed that judges must defend truth, not special interests.
“Some of you claim expertise, yet distort the law to appease paymasters,” Fubara said. “State governance issues fall within the state high court’s jurisdiction, regardless of INEC or police involvement. Doing right earns divine judgment.
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“It doesn’t matter whether you joined INEC or the police. It is a state matter. I am not a lawyer, but I know that if say you are doing the right thing? God will judge you,” he said.
He said because court judgments have far-reaching implications, care needs to be taken in making judicial pronouncements.
“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. The preacher said it. Every evil done in the course of administering justice, you will pay for it dearly.”
Fubara praised the Rivers State judiciary, especially High Court divisions, for supporting his administration amidst opposition. He acknowledged threats against judicial officers via phone calls, physical assaults and frivolous petitions.
“I thank the Rivers judiciary for keeping this administration afloat,” Fubara said. “Your commitment to truth despite persecution is crucial. Courage will prevail; adversity is temporary.”
This call to integrity follows conflicting judgments nearly disrupting local government elections. Fubara’s words underscore the judiciary’s vital role in ensuring justice and accountability.
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