Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has stated that the ongoing political crisis in the state is beginning to reveal its underlying reasons, allowing more people to gain a clearer understanding of the situation. He emphasized that meaningful progress often follows a period of difficulty, drawing a comparison to a seed that must die before it can germinate and grow.
Fubara made these remarks during the swearing-in ceremony of eight new judges at the Executive Chambers of Government House, Port Harcourt, on Friday. The event was highlighted in a statement by the governor’s spokesman, Nelson Chukwudi, and distributed to the press.
The newly appointed High Court judges include Hon. Justice Frank Onyiri, Hon. Justice Victor Chinedum Ugoji, Hon. Justice Godswill Vidal Obomanu, Hon. Justice Rita Chituru Oguguo, Hon. Justice Alatuwo Elkanah Fubara, Hon. Justice Bariyima Sylvester Kokpan, Hon. Justice Lesi Wifa-Adedipe, and Hon. Justice Ibietela Innocent Madighi Obu.
Reflecting on the challenges faced by the state, Fubara noted that Rivers is currently undergoing a period of rebirth, with most issues being addressed and corrected. “We are at a stage of renewal, where we will restore nearly everything that had gone wrong – if not entirely, then at least 90 percent,” he said.
He thanked the judges for their resilience during the crisis, adding that it serves a greater purpose that is now gradually becoming clearer. “Things often get worse before they improve. Just like you don’t harvest maize without planting it first, the current challenges are part of a process leading to the state’s rebirth,” he said.
The governor recalled the unity within the political family when he first assumed office, but acknowledged that attempts were made to destabilize the administration midway through. However, he expressed gratitude for the divine intervention that has since restored stability, inspiring renewed hope and trust in the leadership.
Fubara also spoke on the importance of the judiciary in driving progress in the state, stating, “We are here today to advance the judiciary’s capacity to deliver justice. This appointment wasn’t granted by me but by divine will. Some of you have faced obstacles in your journey to this position, but today, God has made it possible.”
In his final remarks to the new judges, the governor stressed his expectation for them to uphold truth and integrity in their roles, reassuring them that he would never ask them to compromise their duties. “I will never ask you to do anything wrong. Be courageous, stand for the truth, and discharge your duties with the fear of God,” he concluded.
