Fubara Warns Against Political Manipulation, Corruption In Judiciary

By Boluwatife Kehinde-Idowu

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has warned that political manipulation, corruption and unnecessary delays in the justice system are weakening public confidence in Nigeria’s judiciary.

According to Fubara’s remarks at the 66th Annual General Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association in Port Harcourt, the governor urged judges and legal practitioners to uphold independence, integrity and courage in the administration of justice. His remarks were also shared on social media in connection with the conference.

Fubara said the courts should not be viewed merely as places where disputes are resolved, but as institutions where ordinary citizens can seek protection against injustice.

He urged judges to consider the wider consequences of their decisions on society, stressing that the judiciary must remain capable of holding both government and citizens accountable under the law.

The governor warned against factors that could undermine the justice system, including political pressure, technicalities, corruption, undue delays and inadequate access to justice.

He said judges must have the courage to make decisions based on the law and the facts before them, rather than allow external interests to influence the administration of justice.

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Fubara also called on members of the legal profession to defend constitutional democracy and the rule of law, saying the credibility of the judiciary depends largely on its ability to deliver impartial and accessible justice.

He noted that public confidence in the judiciary would continue to suffer if citizens perceive the justice system as being influenced by political considerations or other external pressures.

The governor further said lawyers and judges have a responsibility to ensure that the law protects citizens and contributes to peace, stability and national development.

His remarks came as legal practitioners, judges and other stakeholders gathered in Port Harcourt for the NBA’s annual conference, which is being held under the theme “Beyond Limits.” The conference also featured former Liberian President George Weah, who called for stronger democratic institutions and an independent judiciary.

Fubara’s comments place renewed emphasis on the need for judicial independence and reforms as stakeholders in the legal profession examine challenges affecting justice delivery in Nigeria