PORT HARCOURT/Nigeria: Governor Siminalayi Fubara has described retired Presiding Justice of the Court of Appeal, Asaba Division, Obietonbara Owupele Daniel-Kalio, as a model of integrity, courage and public service, as the Rivers State Government hosted a valedictory banquet in his honour.
Speaking Wednesday night at the Government House in Rivers State, the governor said it was both a privilege and a moment of pride to celebrate the retired jurist, noting that although Daniel-Kalio has formally left the Bench, his wisdom and experience remain valuable assets for the state’s growth and development. He pledged that his administration would continue to seek the former justice’s counsel on matters of governance and institutional strengthening.
Reflecting on the challenges of leadership, Fubara urged political actors and stakeholders to place collective progress above personal ambition, stressing that enduring legacies are built on service rather than material gain. He told guests that honouring Daniel-Kalio’s career offered lessons in integrity and accountability, particularly for younger leaders and public officials.
Addressing the honouree directly, the governor said the recognition accorded him was unprecedented and should inspire others in public life to reflect on how history would judge their conduct. He described the retired justice as a shining example whose life demonstrates that true success lies in standing firmly for truth and justice regardless of pressure.
Earlier, the state Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary, Vera Sam-Dike, praised Daniel-Kalio as a jurist of impeccable character, calling him a titan of the Bench whose career symbolised fairness, intellectual depth and devotion to the rule of law. She said his retirement marked not an end but a celebration of a distinguished judicial journey defined by courage, wisdom and loyalty to justice.
In his response, Daniel-Kalio expressed appreciation to the governor and people of the state, describing his years on the Bench as both a privilege and a solemn responsibility. He said justice, in his view, goes beyond strict interpretation of statutes and must always be guided by fairness, equity and the moral courage to uphold truth.
The retired justice also voiced optimism about the state’s future, asserting that its people possess the character and determination to achieve greatness despite challenges. He pledged to remain available to mentor young lawyers and contribute to national development whenever called upon.
Adding his tribute, the Chief Judge of the state, Simeon Chibuzor Amadi, described Daniel-Kalio as a beacon of judicial excellence whose rulings consistently reflected balance, conscience and sound legal reasoning. He said the jurist’s legacy would continue to inspire generations within Nigeria’s legal profession.
The ceremony drew a cross-section of dignitaries, including judges, senior lawyers, government officials and community leaders, who raised a toast to celebrate the retired justice’s lifelong contributions to the judiciary, mentorship of younger professionals and enduring impact on public life.
