Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has reaffirmed his commitment to fully implement the recent Supreme Court judgment regarding the state’s political crisis. Emphasizing the importance of prioritizing the state’s interests above personal agendas, Governor Fubara declared that his administration will abide by the Supreme Court’s decision, recognizing that the well-being of Rivers State transcends individual concerns. This declaration came during the inauguration of new Judges’ Quarters in Port Harcourt, a project completed by his administration to provide housing for indigenous judges. The governor acknowledged the challenging 16 months leading up to the judgment but reiterated his unwavering dedication to the state’s welfare.
The governor lamented the significant financial resources expended on both sides of the political crisis, highlighting the opportunity cost of these funds. He stressed that these resources could have been better utilized for initiatives that genuinely benefit the state and its people. Governor Fubara reiterated his earlier statement that no price is too high for peace in Rivers State, underscoring that his actions are ultimately driven by a desire to serve the people and leave a positive legacy. The completion of the Judges’ Quarters, he explained, serves as a tangible example of his administration’s commitment to the welfare of judicial officers.
The inauguration of the Judges’ Quarters represents a significant step towards ensuring the well-being of judicial officers in Rivers State. Governor Fubara explained that his administration inherited the project but, recognizing its importance, continued and completed it based on reports from the Ministry of Justice and concerns raised by the Judiciary. He expressed his administration’s willingness to support the proper maintenance of the facility to ensure its long-term viability and provide optimal living conditions for the judges. The governor emphasized that the provision of suitable housing for judges is crucial for their effective performance of duties.
Chief Judge of Rivers State, Justice Simeon Amadi, expressed gratitude to Governor Fubara for completing the Judges’ Quarters project, which he initially initiated in May 2023. He described the project as a significant achievement for the state judiciary, marking a continuation of the policy to provide suitable housing for judges. Justice Amadi highlighted the Rivers State Housing Scheme for Judicial Officers Law No. 10 of 2021, which provides the legal framework for this initiative. He emphasized the positive impact of this policy on judicial officers, reducing the financial burden of securing housing and enabling them to focus on their duties.
Justice Amadi further elaborated on the benefits of the housing scheme, explaining that it provides judges with the option of owner-occupancy or a monetary equivalent. He noted that this policy significantly alleviates the pressure on judges who previously struggled to build retirement homes while in service, allowing them to dedicate their resources and attention to their judicial responsibilities. The scheme represents a recognition of the importance of providing stable and comfortable housing for judicial officers, contributing to their overall well-being and fostering a more conducive environment for the administration of justice.
Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary of the Rivers State Ministry of Justice, Ibiwari Clapton-Ogolo, provided further details about the housing scheme. She explained that the Rivers State Housing Scheme for Judicial Officers, Law No. 10 of 2021, specifically targets judicial officers who are indigenous to Rivers State, either by birth or marriage. The scheme offers these officers the opportunity to own a decent home in the state or receive monetary compensation in lieu of housing. Clapton-Ogolo emphasized the high quality of the newly inaugurated duplexes, underscoring the importance of providing comfortable and peaceful homes for judges, enabling them to effectively fulfill their demanding roles.
