LEGAL YEAR 2025/2026: SANWO-OLU REAFFIRMS JUDICIARY INDEPENDENCE
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has reaffirmed the importance of safeguarding the rights of legal practitioners, emphasising that Judges make judgments on logical evidence and should not be intimidated by criticism.
Sanwo-Olu made this remark today at the Special Prayer commemorating the Commencement of the 2025/2026 New Legal Year, held at the Lagos Central Mosque, Lagos Island.
The Governor, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, said that justice must remain the foundation of governance in Nigeria, adding that judicial officers deserve the freedom and respect to dispense rulings without fear, intimidation, or undue influence.
“I see it as a season of ignorance in the country, where social media commentary and uninformed opinions increasingly shape public discourse. It is dangerous for people who lack legal knowledge to undermine judicial processes with baseless criticisms, stressing that judgments are not made in marketplaces but in courts of law after careful deliberation,” said Sanwo-Olu
He urged citizens to learn to respect the processes of justice and avoid contributing to the erosion of trust in public institutions.
While reaffirming Lagos State’s respect for judicial independence, the Governor applauded judges for their resilience, impartiality, and courage in the face of public pressure and misinformation, noting that disagreements with judicial rulings should be addressed through proper legal channels or legislative reforms, not through disparagement of the bench. “We may criticise, but we cannot deny the law,” he declared.
He noted that the quantum of cases the Lagos State judges deal with is very high and they are doing an enormous amount of work to make sure that justice is served in the state, highlighting that Lagos judges are probably one of the best in the country.
Besides, Sanwo-Olu noted that globally, the world is in a period in which there is chaos from various governments, citing that foreign countries are experiencing suppression of fundamental human rights by the highest of the highest people.
Earlier in his opening remark, the Chief Imam of Lagos, Sheikh Sulaiman Olohuntoyin Abou-Nolla, noted that the annual Legal year marks a significant moment in the state government's collective pursuit of justice, equity, and the rule of law, which are fundamental pillars of any civil society.
Abou-Nolla added that the event recognises the vital role of the judiciary and legal profession today in upholding fairness, protecting rights, and fostering peace, equality, and diversity in the nation as well.
The Chief Imam stressed that the theme of the event resonates with the state government's shared values of integrity, compassion, and justice, which are not only enshrined in its legal system but also deeply rooted in the teachings of Islam. “As we rise from the year past and set our sights on the year ahead, we are reminded of the divine injunction to act justly and promote harmony in all our dealings,” he said.
In his lecture, titled “Dispensing Ambivalent Justice, A Sacred Duty of the Judiciary in Achieving a Tranquil and Corruption-Free Society,” Prof. Saheed Timehin acknowledged that the judiciary remains one of the most critical pillars of governance, serving as the guardian of justice, fairness, and equality before the law.
Prof. Timehin added that justice is universally recognised as the foundation of peace and a pathway to national progress. He cited that in Nigeria, where public trust in institutions often fluctuates, the judiciary stands as the last hope of the common man. Its impartiality and independence are not only constitutional mandates but also sacred responsibilities that transcend human authority, reflecting divine accountability in every judgment delivered.
According to him, “The Nigerian Constitution enshrines the principles of freedom, equality, and justice, underscoring the judiciary’s obligation to deliver clear, timely, and uncompromised judgments. Any delay, inconsistency, or external interference in judicial decisions weakens public confidence and fuels corruption, impunity, and social unrest,” adding that integrity, independence, and impartiality remain non-negotiable values for judicial officers, as they shape destinies and safeguard national stability.
He, therefore, urged the government to continue its democratic journey, strengthening the judiciary and instilling confidence in its processes, which he described as paramount to addressing corruption, promoting stability, and uniting the people.
More photos below.
Comments
Post a Comment