Aiyedatiwa Wins NBA Honour, Orders Overhaul of Okitipupa Courts, Calls for People-Centred Justice

Aiyedatiwa Wins NBA Honour, Orders Overhaul of Okitipupa Courts, Calls for People-Centred Justice
Ondo State Governor, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has called for a justice system that is fair, accessible, and responsive to the needs of ordinary citizens, stressing that the rule of law must reflect the realities of the people it serves.
Speaking at the grand finale of the Law Week of the Nigerian Bar Association, Okitipupa Branch, held in Akure, the governor said justice must not be delayed, selective, or disconnected from the people.
According to him, the law should go beyond written rules to serve as a moral compass for society, ensuring fairness, equity, and accountability. He emphasised that citizens deserve a system that is timely, impartial, and effective.
“The demand of the common man is clear — justice must be real, fair, and impactful,” he stated.
Governor Aiyedatiwa also announced plans to renovate court facilities in Okitipupa, assuring legal practitioners that his administration remains committed to strengthening judicial infrastructure, despite granting autonomy to the judiciary.
He urged members of the Bar and Bench to uphold integrity and professionalism, noting their critical role as defenders of justice and protectors of the vulnerable. He further encouraged young lawyers to build careers anchored on discipline, character, and ethical standards.
Highlighting ongoing reforms, the governor said his administration is focused on improving public trust in the judiciary and ensuring equal access to justice for all, regardless of status.
Aiyedatiwa, who received a Special Recognition Award at the event, described the honour as a call to greater responsibility and service to society.
In his remarks, former NBA President, Wole Olanipekun, warned against overburdening the judiciary, particularly with electoral disputes, noting that such trends could threaten democratic stability.
He stressed that an independent judiciary remains the foundation of any functional democracy, adding that the rule of law and democratic governance must be preserved as inseparable pillars.
Chairman of the 2026 Law Week Planning Committee, Dr Abdul-Kabir Ajana, SAN, called for increased support for the Okitipupa branch, especially in infrastructure and logistics, while appreciating stakeholders for their contributions.
The event drew key stakeholders, including the Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, senior government officials, legal practitioners, and political leaders across Ondo State.