NBA conference: Fubara, Weah call for independent judiciary to protect democracy

The Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, has called for an independent judiciary to safeguard democracy during the 66th Annual General Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association in Port Harcourt. Fubara stressed that the quality of justice delivered by the courts is crucial for maintaining law and order and driving national development.

He urged judges to take into account the wider impact of their judgments on society, ensuring that nothing but the truth prevails, regardless of status or social affiliations. Fubara explained that public confidence in the country's judiciary would improve only when judges demonstrate a sound understanding of the law, display excellent legal reasoning, courage, commitment, and integrity.

He emphasized that the legal system sets the rules of conduct and the basis for relationships between government, public and private institutions, and citizens. He also noted that the courts serve as the ultimate refuge for all to pursue justice, accountability, human dignity, and legal and constitutional rights. Former President of Liberia, George Weah, who delivered the keynote address, highlighted the importance of an independent judiciary protected by a fearless judicial bar in every nation.

Weah stressed that democracy doesn't end on election night but is tested every day, and noted that democracy cannot survive on strong men but on strong institutions.