Governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State Dr. Dakuku Peterside has vowed to defend the independence of the judiciary.

He also promised to provide effective justice administration system in Rivers State.

Peterside made the pledge in Port Harcourt at a one-day interactive session with members of the Nigerian Bar Association, (NBA) Rivers State branch.

Speaking extensively on justice administration and alternative dispute resolution, he assured the bar that his government would put in place measures to ensure smooth and speedy dispensation of justice.

He also promised to provide modern infrastructure by ensuring that Rivers State courts are technology driven and compliant.

He described the law and lawyers as critical stakeholders in his resolve to build a modern state that will be a reference point in Nigeria and beyond.

“Justice Administration is important because every other thing rests on the law. Security is one of our most important programmes and it rests solidly on the law. And if we are looking for a Rivers State that will be prosperous, then we must be looking at a Rivers State that will run on rule of law.

“In our road map, the judiciary as an arm of government will play an important role. We recognise and will guard its independence as already enshrined in the Constitution,” he said.

Responding, the lawyers commended APC and the Greater Together Campaign Organisation for providing a platform for exchange of ideas.

Barrister Vincent Chukwu, who described the interactive forum as excellent, called on Peterside to continually engage opinions as he continues his campaign. He said lawyers are expectant of the in-coming administration, adding that the candidate’s presence has further strengthen their hope of a better Rivers come May 29.

He pleaded with Peterside to help young lawyers by instituting interest-free loans and facilities that would ameliorate the challenge of practising law in today’s Nigeria.

In their presentations, while Barrister Joseph Dents asked Peterside and the APC to keep to their promise of ensuring speedy dispensation of justice across the state, Barrister Jessica Muga Mene called for employment opportunities for lawyers in public service.

In his own contribution, Honourable Asita, a lawyer and Dr Peterside’s running mate promised to work with lawyers towards building a better Rivers State.

Finally, the APC candidate assured the lawyers that the crisis rocking the Rivers State judiciary will soon be over.

He promised to do everything possible to resolve the crisis which has seriously affected the livelihood of lawyers and other judicial officers.

•Photo shows Peterside