The Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has appealed to judges, young lawyers and aspiring judicial officers to avoid being swayed by party interests, emphasizing the need for them to maintain their objectivity and bravery, particularly as another election cycle draws near.
Abiodun, who was represented by his Deputy, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, made the appeal on Thursday, during the 50th Anniversary Lecture of the State’s Judiciary.
The anniversary with the theme, Fifty Years Of Justice, Integrity And Public Trust: Building The Future Of The Ogun State Judiciary was held at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The governor maintained that the credibility of democracy depends on their neutrality, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to bolstering the judiciary’s institutional capacity, driving infrastructural growth, and enhancing staff welfare.
He commended the state’s judiciary for upholding justice, safeguarding rights, and ensuring accountability, arguing that fifty years is more than simply a passing period but rather a sign of courage, integrity, and dedication to justice.
“As we approach another election cycle, the responsibility of the judiciary becomes even more pronounced. Elections test democratic institutions, and the courts often resolve political disputes. I urge the judiciary of Ogun State to remain impartial and courageous.
“Do not allow yourselves to be drawn into partisan interests. The credibility of our democracy depends on your neutrality. To young lawyers and aspiring judicial officers, let this anniversary inspire you. Uphold ethical standards, pursue excellence and guard your integrity.
“The judiciary is not subordinate to the executive or legislature, It stands parallel with the sacred duty to interpret the law and protect the constitution. That is why we remain deliberate in supporting judicial independence, institutional reform, infrastructure, and capacity development.”
“As an administration, we will continue to strengthen the institutional capacity of the Ogun State Judiciary, sustain infrastructural development, improve welfare, and uphold financial autonomy in line with constitutional provisions.
Delivering his keynote address, Moruf Ajibola SAN and Proprietor of Crescent University, Abeokuta, bemoaned the many accusations of corruption and judicial indiscipline against judicial officers, which have caused the public’s confidence and trust in the Nigerian judiciary to rapidly deteriorate in recent years.
Ajibola opined that once the appointment process of a judge is faulty, the integrity of the judges has been traded away.
“For judicial appointments, who you know, state of origin, relig: and cultural blocs are the leading unspoken criteria above
impartiality posture. These are sterling qualities that win the confidence of the masses that has been trashed due to political and tribal interference and integrity and knowledge have been relegated to the background.
He pointed out that while it is not bad for a judge to appoint friends or family members as judges, it is crucial to provide them an equal opportunity to compete or take part in an open and honest process.
Meanwhile, in her address, Chief Judge, Justice Mosunmola Dipeolu, described the journey of the state judiciary over the past 50 years as “beautiful,” attributing its success to God.
Addressing concerns ahead of the 2027 political season, Justice Dipeolu warned politicians against attempting to influence judges and urged her colleagues on the bench to uphold the integrity of the judiciary.
She, however, assured residents of speedy dispensation of justice, noting that the judiciary is embracing technological reforms to improve efficiency.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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