By Samuel Olusegun Precious
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to judicial independence as he announced a 50 percent increase in overhead expenditure for the State Judiciary.
Governor Fubara made the announcement on Thursday, September 24, 2026, during the Special Court Session marking the commencement of the 2026/2027 Legal Year at the Ceremonial Court Hall, High Court Complex, Port Harcourt.
Deputy Governor , Professor Ngozi Nma Odu, who represented Governor Fubara at the event, congratulated the Chief Judge of Rivers State, Hon. Justice Simeon Chibuzor Amadi, and the entire judiciary for the start of the new legal year, describing it as a period for reflection, accountability and renewed commitment to justice delivery.
He commended the judiciary for its role in maintaining peace, stability and socio-economic development in the state through impartial dispensation of justice.
“The Judiciary remains a critical component of government and a cornerstone of peace, stability and development. Public confidence in the courts is essential to building trust between government and citizens,” Fubara said.
The Governor acknowledged challenges facing the judiciary, including inadequate infrastructure and manpower, heavy caseloads, case management difficulties and delays in justice administration. He assured that his administration will continue to respect the constitutional autonomy of the judiciary and provide resources for it to function without interference.
According to him, in the last three years, the state government has supported the judiciary through improved access to justice, appointment of additional judges and magistrates, digitalization of case management, and strengthening of institutional frameworks.He disclosed that following the passage of the 2026 Appropriation Law, his administration has approved a 50% increase in overhead for the judiciary and its institutions to meet operational needs, enhance judicial welfare and support training for judicial officers and staff.
In his address, Chief Judge Justice Simeon Amadi thanked Governor Fubara for his commitment to the rule of law and for allowing the judiciary to effectively discharge its constitutional responsibilities as the third arm of government.
“The Judiciary must remain a sanctuary of justice where the weak can seek protection and the powerful are held accountable under the law,” Justice Amadi said.
He urged judicial officers to remain faithful to their oath, adding that the ideal judge is “fair without being harsh, patient without being passive, and independent without losing sight of responsibility.”
Also speaking, President of the Customary Court of Appeal, Hon. Justice Ihemnacho Wilfred Chibuzor, said a well-motivated and respected judiciary will promote integrity and eliminate corruption.The Legal Year activities started earlier in the day with a Thanksgiving and Rededication Service at the Cathedral Church of St. Paul, Diobu (Rebisi), Port Harcourt.
