The Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has urged judges, young lawyers, and aspiring judicial officers to resist being influenced by party interests, stressing the importance of maintaining objectivity and courage, especially as another election cycle approaches.
Abiodun, represented by his Deputy, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, made the appeal on Thursday during the 50th Anniversary Lecture of the State’s Judiciary.
The anniversary, themed Fifty Years Of Justice, Integrity And Public Trust: Building The Future Of The Ogun State Judiciary, took place at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The governor highlighted that democracy relies on the judiciary’s neutrality, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to strengthening the judiciary’s institutional capacity, supporting infrastructural development, and improving staff welfare.
He praised the state’s judiciary for delivering justice, protecting rights, and ensuring accountability, noting that fifty years represents not just a period of time but a testament to courage, integrity, and dedication to justice.
“As we approach another election cycle, the responsibility of the judiciary becomes even more pronounced. Elections test democratic institutions, and the courts often resolve political disputes. I urge the judiciary of Ogun State to remain impartial and courageous.
“Do not allow yourselves to be drawn into partisan interests. The credibility of our democracy depends on your neutrality. To young lawyers and aspiring judicial officers, let this anniversary inspire you. Uphold ethical standards, pursue excellence and guard your integrity.
“The judiciary is not subordinate to the executive or legislature, It stands parallel with the sacred duty to interpret the law and protect the constitution. That is why we remain deliberate in supporting judicial independence, institutional reform, infrastructure, and capacity development.”
“As an administration, we will continue to strengthen the institutional capacity of the Ogun State Judiciary, sustain infrastructural development, improve welfare, and uphold financial autonomy in line with constitutional provisions.
Delivering the keynote address, Moruf Ajibola SAN, Proprietor of Crescent University, Abeokuta, lamented the numerous allegations of corruption and judicial indiscipline against judicial officers, which have undermined public trust in the Nigerian judiciary in recent years.
Ajibola argued that when the appointment process of judges is flawed, the integrity of the judiciary is compromised.
“For judicial appointments, who you know, state of origin, relig: and cultural blocs are the leading unspoken criteria above
impartiality posture. These are sterling qualities that win the confidence of the masses that has been trashed due to political and tribal interference and integrity and knowledge have been relegated to the background.
He emphasized that while it is not inherently wrong for judges to appoint friends or relatives, it is essential to ensure equal opportunity through an open and transparent process.
Meanwhile, in her remarks, Chief Judge Justice Mosunmola Dipeolu described the journey of the state judiciary over the past 50 years as “beautiful,” attributing its achievements to God.
Looking ahead to the 2027 political season, Justice Dipeolu cautioned politicians against attempting to influence judges and encouraged her colleagues on the bench to uphold the judiciary’s integrity.
She also reassured residents of timely justice, noting that the judiciary is adopting technological reforms to enhance efficiency.