Governor Siminalayi Fubara has led dignitaries in celebrating the retirement of Obietonbara Owupele Daniel-Kalio, describing the former Presiding Justice of the Court of Appeal, Asaba Division, as a beacon of integrity and excellence.
The governor spoke at a valedictory state banquet organised in honour of the retired jurist at Government House, where prominent personalities gathered to pay tribute to his distinguished judicial career.
Fubara described it as a privilege to honour Justice Daniel-Kalio, noting that although he has retired from the Bench, he remains strong and capable of contributing to the growth and development of Rivers State.
“You are retired but not tired. Anything that has to do with the betterment of our state, especially in the judiciary, we will always bring you in,” the governor said.
He reflected on the legacy of the old Rivers State and urged stakeholders to prioritise collective interest over personal ambition in order to restore the state’s progressive trajectory.
“It is not about us winning now, it is how did it end. We must strive to do the right things and stand on the side of truth so that at the end, we will be remembered for what is right,” Fubara stated.
Earlier, the Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary, Rivers State, Mrs. Vera Sam-Dike, described the retired justice as a titan of the Bench and an icon of the law.
She praised his unwavering loyalty, fairness, and commitment to the rule of law, saying his career was marked by courage, wisdom, and intellectual depth.
“His retirement marks the celebration of a journey that has touched many lives and upheld the highest tenets of justice,” she said.
‘Rivers Is Destined for Greatness’
In his response, Justice Daniel-Kalio expressed gratitude to the governor and people of Rivers State for the honour.
He recounted his life journey and acknowledged the state’s role in his growth and success.
“Rivers State has been good to me. I will continue to serve Rivers State and Nigeria with all my heart, because we have no other country,” he said.
He expressed optimism about the state’s future, declaring that Rivers could compete with and even surpass other leading states if its people remain united and focused on development.
The banquet not only celebrated the end of an era in the judiciary but also underscored the enduring values of integrity, service, and justice that Justice Daniel-Kalio leaves behind.