Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has called on judges, lawyers, and public officials to safeguard the integrity and independence of the judiciary. He emphasized that the justice system must endure beyond individuals, governments, and political cycles. Sanwo-Olu made this statement in a message delivered by the Secretary to the Lagos State Government, Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, at the special service marking the commencement of the 2026/2027 Legal Year of the Lagos State Judiciary.
Sanwo-Olu's administration has entered its final phase, with less than 10 months remaining. He noted that this period provides an opportunity to reflect on achievements and the institutions that will be left behind. The governor stressed that the legacy of an administration should not be measured solely by infrastructure and completed projects, but also by the strength of institutions, public confidence, and systems established for future generations.
The judiciary plays a critical role in building a thriving society, as citizens must be assured that their rights will be protected, disputes fairly resolved, and contracts respected. Sanwo-Olu emphasized that the effectiveness of the justice system has implications beyond the courtroom, affecting businesses, investments, economic activities, and public confidence in government. He noted that this assurance is particularly important for Lagos, with its enormous population, vibrant economy, and complex social environment.
Sanwo-Olu assured the judiciary that the state government would continue to support initiatives aimed at improving access to justice, strengthening the administration of justice, and making the system more responsive to the needs of Lagos residents. However, he stressed that infrastructure, technology, and institutional reforms alone cannot guarantee a strong justice system, as its ultimate strength depends on the integrity of those administering justice.
The governor urged judicial officers to preserve the independence and integrity of the judiciary, irrespective of changes in government or political leadership. He emphasized that administrations will come and go, but the institution of justice must endure beyond personalities, governments, and political cycles. Sanwo-Olu also urged lawyers to uphold the ethics and dignity of the profession and remain committed to the administration of justice.
Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Lawal Pedro, pledged continued government support for the judiciary, particularly in improving access to justice, reducing delays in case disposal, and strengthening public confidence in the justice system. The Chief Judge of Lagos State, Justice Kazeem Alogba, also pledged that judges and magistrates would continue to uphold the rule of law and discharge their responsibilities with diligence.
The simultaneous services marking the commencement of the 2026/2027 Legal Year of the Lagos State Judiciary saw stakeholders calling for a justice system that remains independent, accessible, fair, and responsive beyond individual administrations and political cycles. Key stakeholders, including the Chief Imam of Lagos, Sheikh Sulaiman Abu-Nolla, and the Diocesan Bishop of Lagos West, Rt. Rev. Dr. James Odedeyi, urged judicial officers to remain faithful to their responsibilities and make justice, fairness, and accountability the foundation of their responsibilities.
Key points
- The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, emphasizes the importance of an independent and strong judiciary.
- Sanwo-Olu urges judicial officers to preserve the independence and integrity of the judiciary.
- The governor assures the judiciary of continued government support for initiatives aimed at improving access to justice.
