By Duchess Ifeoluwa 

Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has called for a justice system that is fair, accessible and responsive to the needs of ordinary Nigerians, even as he secured a Special Recognition Award at the grand finale of the Law Week of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Okitipupa Branch.

Speaking at the event held at Ojaja Park in Akure on Wednesday, the governor stressed that the rule of law must reflect the realities of the people it serves, warning against a system that is distant, delayed or selective.

He said justice must not exist merely as abstract principles but as a living instrument that guarantees fairness, equity and public confidence.

“The cry of the ordinary citizen is simple but powerful: let justice be real, let it be fair, and let it be felt,” Aiyedatiwa said, underscoring the need for a judiciary that is timely, impartial and people-centred.

The governor also announced plans to renovate court facilities in Okitipupa, assuring legal practitioners that although the judiciary enjoys autonomy, the executive arm would facilitate the upgrade of infrastructure to enhance service delivery.

He noted that his administration remains committed to reforms aimed at strengthening judicial institutions and expanding access to justice across the state.

Aiyedatiwa urged lawyers to uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism, reminding them of their dual responsibility as defenders of justice and protectors of the vulnerable.

He further charged young members of the Bar to build their careers on discipline, ethical conduct and character, cautioning against shortcuts that could undermine the profession.

While expressing appreciation for the award, the governor described it as a call to greater service, reiterating the importance of collaboration between government and the legal profession in promoting good governance and safeguarding democratic values.

In his remarks, former President of the NBA, Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), warned that the judiciary remains the cornerstone of any functional democracy, cautioning against the increasing tendency to overload courts with disputes, particularly electoral matters.

He said excessive reliance on the judiciary to resolve political issues could pose risks to democratic stability if not properly managed.

Olanipekun, who chaired the occasion, emphasised that the independence of the judiciary is fundamental to sustaining democracy, noting that the rule of law and democratic governance are inseparable.

Also speaking, Chairman of the 2026 Law Week Planning Committee, Abdul-Kabir Olajide Ajana (SAN), called for greater support for the development of the NBA Okitipupa Branch, particularly in infrastructure and logistics, while acknowledging contributions that led to its establishment.

The event drew prominent dignitaries, including the Chief Judge of Ondo State, Olusegun Odusola, traditional rulers such as the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, and political stakeholders, among others.