Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has assured that his administration will fully implement the recent Supreme Court ruling on the state’s political crisis.
He emphasized that his commitment remains to protect Rivers State’s interests above personal or political considerations.
According to The PUNCH, Fubara acknowledged the challenges faced during his 16-month tenure but reiterated that the state’s welfare remains paramount.
“It has not been an easy 16 months, but what is important is the interest of our state, which must be above our personal interests,” he stated.
“The Supreme Court has given a judgment, and my administration is going to implement it to its fullest. The reason is clear: it is not about me; it is about the good of this state.”
Reflecting on the financial implications of the crisis, the governor lamented the resources spent on legal battles instead of developmental projects. He called for unity and collaboration to ensure the state’s progress.
“At the end of the day, it is about our people. I will leave office, but the good work I have done will speak for me and defend my generation,” he added.
During the event, Fubara also underscored his administration’s dedication to the welfare of judicial officers.
He noted that the Judges’ Quarters project, which was initiated by the previous administration, was completed under his leadership following recommendations from the Ministry of Justice.
“We give glory to God that today, we have completed this project and are ready to hand it over to the lucky judges who will reside here,” he said. “We also recognize the need for proper maintenance to ensure maximum satisfaction, and we will provide necessary support in that regard.”
Performing the inauguration, Chief Judge of Rivers State, Justice Simeon Amadi, commended Fubara for continuing and completing the project, which he had laid the foundation for on May 22, 2023.
“We are pleased with this landmark achievement, which represents the continuation of the policy of providing befitting residential accommodation for judges of Rivers State,” Amadi said.
“This aligns with the Rivers State Housing Scheme for Judicial Officers Law No. 10 of 2021, passed by the State Assembly and signed into law by the immediate past governor.”
He explained that the policy has significantly reduced the financial burden on judges, allowing them to focus on their duties without the pressure of securing retirement homes while in service.
In her remarks, Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary of the Rivers State Ministry of Justice, Ibiwari Clapton-Ogolo, highlighted the significance of the housing scheme, which ensures that judicial officers who are indigenes of Rivers State, by birth or marriage, have access to decent accommodation.
“In accordance with this law, today, the Honourable Chief Judge of Rivers State will commission seven duplexes of five bedrooms, exquisitely furnished for our judges,” she stated. “Our judges deserve nothing less, and we hope these homes will provide them peace and rest as they carry out their judicial responsibilities.”
