Sanwo-Olu calls for collaboration to strengthen judiciary
By Sodiq Adelakun
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has called for a collaborative effort among all arms of government to ensure that the judiciary remains a pillar of justice and the last hope of the citizens.
Sanwo-Olu made the call at a special prayer to mark the commencement of the 2024/2025 Legal Year, which was held at the Lagos Central Mosque, Lagos Island, on Monday.
The Governor, who was represented by his Deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, said the state government was committed to supporting and strengthening the judiciary.
According to him, the government recognises the critical role of the judiciary in maintaining justice and order.
He emphasised that the executive arm remained steadfast in its support for the judiciary and would continue to collaborate closely with the judicial arm to ensure swift justice delivery.
Sanwo-Olu highlighted some significant reforms undertaken by the state judiciary to strengthen the legal system.
These include the establishment of the Small Claims Court, the Special Offences and Sexual Offences Courts, and the introduction of e-probate services.
He also mentioned that the state judiciary has embarked on construction projects to boost its performance, including the Commercial Court in Tapa, which is 90 percent completed and provides a specialised venue for handling the growing number of commercial disputes in Lagos State.
Sanwo-Olu added that the ongoing review of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law, along with the digitalisation of court processes, had enhanced the efficiency and accessibility of justice through innovations such as remote court sittings and e-filing.
In his lecture entitled “Exploring the Roles of the Judiciary in Revitalising Nigeria’s Economy through an Islamic Lens,” Sheikh Imran Elha said that the judicial career was a divine calling.
According to him, there are three categories of judges: righteous judges who render just verdicts, ignorant judges who make uninformed decisions, and corrupt judges who intentionally manipulate judgments through compromise or external pressure.
Sheikh AbdulRahman Lawal, in his lecture entitled “Justice as a Catalyst for Economic Recovery and Political Stability in Nigeria,” said that God condemned injustice.
He said that God commanded justice, fairness, and compassion in all human interactions. He added that justice must be equitable irrespective of religion or tribe.
