President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has vowed that his administration remains steadfast in its commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring the independence of Nigeria’s judiciary, underscoring ongoing legislative efforts to fast-track reforms and enhance access to justice for every Nigerian.
Tinubu made the assertion at the launch of a book dedicated to the immediate past Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, in Abuja.
The book, The Judicial Legacy of Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, co-authored by Dr. Charles Mekwunye (SAN) and Ayo Olanrewaju, the Deputy Editor-in-Chief and Chairman of the Editorial Board of the Nigerian Weekly Law Reports (NWLR), offers a comprehensive review of Justice Ariwoola’s distinguished tenure in Nigeria’s appellate courts.
The work highlights his profound contributions to the country’s legal framework and his pivotal role in shaping Nigerian jurisprudence.
Representing the President at the occasion, the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Olasunkanmi Fagbemi, SAN, lauded Justice Ariwoola for his unwavering commitment to nation-building.
He emphasized that the retired Chief Justice viewed his role not merely as a judicial appointment but as a dedicated call to national service.
Fagbemi noted that many of Ariwoola’s landmark judgments continue to reverberate across Nigeria’s legal landscape, particularly in constitutional and contract law.
He further assured attendees of the government’s continued commitment to strengthening judicial independence, a core pillar of a democratic society.
Former President Goodluck Jonathan, who served as the chairman of the event, highlighted the book’s importance as a lasting testament to Justice Ariwoola’s profound legal contributions.
Jonathan praised the book for preserving institutional memory and offering invaluable insights into key decisions that have shaped the nation’s constitutional, electoral, and administrative law.
“This book serves as a crucial resource for understanding the integrity and far-reaching impact of Justice Ariwoola’s work,” Jonathan said, emphasizing that it offers a critical reflection on the role of judicial officers in a democracy.
The book was reviewed by Professor Bolaji Owasanoye, SAN, who commended its depth and scholarly rigor. Owasanoye described it as a sobering reflection on Ariwoola’s judicial philosophy and the lasting legacy of his judgments.
During the launch, co-author Dr. Mekwunye elaborated on the essence of the book, which delves into Justice Ariwoola’s judicial philosophy and how his adherence to legal precedent helped guide the nation’s jurisprudence.
Mekwunye noted that despite never having delivered a dissenting judgment in his career, Justice Ariwoola advanced legal principles through his consensus-driven approach, setting a high standard for legal consistency and integrity.
In a bold call for reform, Dr. Mekwunye also highlighted the urgent need for the federal government to address the plight of detainees languishing in correctional facilities without trial.
He condemned the continued incarceration of individuals, some for up to nine years, without formal charges or access to bail, calling it a blatant violation of fundamental human rights and a stain on Nigeria’s justice system.
“The government must take immediate action to ensure that no one is unjustly detained without trial,” Mekwunye urged, stressing that judicial reform must guarantee timely and equitable access to justice for all Nigerians, especially the vulnerable.
Justice Ariwoola, in his remarks, expressed profound gratitude for the recognition and reaffirmed his belief in the judiciary as the last bastion of hope for the common man.
He stressed the critical role of judicial officers in maintaining the rule of law and ensuring justice is served impartially and transparently.
“The judiciary is the final frontier for justice, and we must never lose sight of our duty to serve with integrity,” he remarked, urging young legal practitioners to uphold the values of discipline and service.
Justice Ariwoola concluded with a reminder that “justice must not only be done but must also be seen to be done in every courtroom across the nation,” emphasizing the need for transparency in judicial proceedings.
The event, which attracted legal luminaries, policymakers, and prominent figures in the legal community, also served as a call to action for comprehensive judicial reforms aimed at ensuring fairness and equity within Nigeria’s legal system.
Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
