The Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, indicated his intention on Monday to initiate an investigation into the administration of his predecessor and former Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike.
He hinted at the establishment of a judicial panel of inquiry shortly to scrutinize the conduct of governance in the state before his assumption of office.
Governor Fubara dropped a hint while administering the oath of office to Mr. Dagogo Israel Iboroma, SAN, the newly appointed Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice of the State at the Government House in Port Harcourt. He noted that the arrival of the Attorney General was timely given the numerous legal issues that required bold and courageous handling.
He stated, “Therefore, my esteemed colleague, Dagogo Iboroma, you are now officially the Attorney-General of our beloved state. Secretary to the State Government, please present him with his appointment letter; he is now the Attorney-General.
“Why are we bringing you in at this critical juncture? We are faced with a myriad of challenges. We trust that you will not be the type to simply file ‘nolle prosequi’ when served with legal processes, or engage in actions that would harm us.”
Furthermore, he added, “I must emphasize that you have a weighty responsibility. We will be establishing a judicial panel of inquiry to scrutinize the conduct of governance.
Therefore, be prepared; I am resolute on this matter. “Please, defend our interests. We believe in your ability to defend us given your impeccable track record. You are a man of peace and integrity. Individuals like you are truly exceptional and are guided by religious principles.”
Governor Fubara reiterated his belief that the political discord he deemed an internal issue would have been resolved, but expressed disappointment at the lack of progress in resolving it.
The Governor stressed that, despite the unfortunate circumstances, his administration has moved forward with the establishment of a competent State House of Assembly to carry out legislative functions and the appointment of a seasoned lawyer as the Attorney-General of the State.”I am pleased that this occasion marks the commencement of a new era in our governance.
“When I mentioned that my patience had a purpose, it was because I recognized our shared heritage. Even in the face of disagreements, no matter how severe, they should be resolved amicably.
“Regrettably, it has become evident that an amicable resolution to this disagreement is unattainable. For various reasons, it is apparent that there is deliberate sabotage— a conscious effort to undermine this administration.
“As a result, we must forge ahead. If moving forward entails making decisions that may be uncomfortable for some, we are steadfast in safeguarding the interests of the people of Rivers State.” Governor Fubara criticized the former Attorney-General, Prof. Zaccheaus Adangor, accusing him of undermining the very administration he was meant to serve as the chief legal officer of the state.
He admonished the new Attorney General, “It is commendable that you already held the title of Senior Advocate of Nigeria prior to your appointment. This underscores your competence as a lawyer and validates your appointment. This is unlike the situation we had previously, where an individual obtained the SAN title while in office. Once conferred the title, the only actions taken were aimed at undermining the government.
“Instead of maintaining decorum, this individual publicly flaunted his legal expertise. He should have publicly acknowledged his role as the Chief Law Officer.” While in office, he appeared before a magistrate court. At that moment, he failed to recognize his position as the Chief Law Officer, thereby violating the ethical standards of his profession. As I mentioned, his actions will yield consequences, not in the afterlife, but in this lifetime.”
The Governor also asserted that divine elevation to any position is not a mistake and refuted claims suggesting that his ascension to the governorship was an error.
The new Commissioner for Justice underwent screening and confirmation by the Rivers State House of Assembly on Monday under the leadership of factional Speaker Rt. Hon. Victor Oko-Jumbo.
From: Nwakaji Peace Martins
