Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has said that what Nigeria needs to grow and sustain democracy and good governance is strong institutions and not strong individuals, who want to control every Government institution.
Governor Fubara said this at the opening of the re-dedication service for the opening of the 2024/2025 New Legal Year at the Cathedral Church of St. Paul’s Diobu (Garrison), Port Harcourt on Thursday.
In his words, “Institutional strength is the only thing that will bring development to this nation.
“If I were a businessman coming to invest in Nigeria, why would I do so when I see that institutions are weak and individuals are stronger than the institutions?”
He urged members of the bench to remain courageous in upholding the truth, despite threats for physical assaults and frivolous petitions.
He said, “We are aware that a good number of you have been threatened through phone calls and even physical assaults.
“We also know that some of you have faced professional threats through false and frivolous petitions.
“One thing you must understand is that when you are doing the right thing, you will face persecution.
“To those of you who are standing strong and being attacked from all sides, be courageous—this will soon be over. Nothing lasts forever!”
He praised the Rivers State Judiciary, especially the High Court of the State, for their support in keeping his administration afloat.
He noted that what the country needs desperately is institutional strength, not strong individuals.
Governor Fubara, however, berated judges he considered their actions unprofessional.
“Some of you, as legal luminaries, know the truth, but you go on air just to pacify your paymasters, turning the law upside down.
“We all know the law. When it comes to cases involving the administration of governance in the state, it is the duty of the State High Courts. It doesn’t matter whether INEC or the Police are involved; it is a straightforward matter. I’m not a lawyer, but even I know this.”
He reminded judges of their important role in the society, referring to them as “gods”.
“Let me say it clearly: Judges, you are the “gods” we see here. Your position is to stand and defend us, to look at whoever comes before you and tell them the truth”.
He warned that if the judges fail in their responsibility to uphold truth as “gods” they are, they will have a big question to answer later.
Governor Fubara noted that Rivers state belongs everyone, warning that the institutions in the state must not be destroyed not to set a dangerous precedence.
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