The Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice in Ondo State, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo SAN, has urged the judiciary to be mindful of not allowing technicalities to prevent it from delivering judgments that are legally sound and socially beneficial.
Ajulo made this call at the opening ceremony of the Akure NBA Law Week, held on Tuesday at the International Culture and Events Centre (The Dome). The event, held in honor of Senator Dr. Bode Olajumoke, featured Chief Femi Fani-Kayode as the keynote speaker and was attended by various eminent personalities in the legal profession. It explored the theme: “Nigeria: Quest For A Utilitarian Judiciary And Roles For Stakeholders.”
In his opening speech, which also served as a reflection on the theme, Ajulo commended the Chairman of the Akure branch of the NBA and the members of his executive for organizing the event, celebrating the crucial role of lawyers in providing solutions during critical times.
He stated:
“It gives me immense pleasure and professional pride to stand before this august gathering at the opening ceremony of the 2025 Law Week of our noble Association, the Nigerian Bar Association, Akure Branch.”
Ajulo continued:
“Let me begin by commending the Chairman and other Executive members, the Law Week planning committee and the entire membership of this branch for once again providing a platform for sober reflection and constructive dialogue. I congratulate the Chairman, the Executives and the planning committee for their commitment to intellectual discourse and professional excellence, as evidenced by the choice of the thought-provoking and highly sensitive and timely theme of this year’s Law Week: “Nigeria: Quest For A Utilitarian Judiciary And Roles For Stakeholders.”
Reflecting on the nobility of the legal profession, he remarked:
“The legal profession remains one of the noblest callings known to mankind — the bedrock upon which civilization itself is built. It is not merely an occupation but a heritage, a vocation that stands as both shield and compass: shielding the rights and liberties of all, while guiding society towards justice, order, peace, and progress.”
He emphasized the importance of lawyers:
“Indeed, every thriving democracy rests on the backbone of the functional legal system and lawyers constitute the strength of that system.”
Citing practical examples, he noted:
“In Ondo State and across Nigeria, the contributions of the Bar and the Bench to political order, social balance and economic advancement cannot be over-emphasized. The legal mind gives structure to governance, direction to policy and integrity to public institutions.”
He recalled a significant historical event:
“I remember in 1983, the case of Ajasin V Omoboriowo… it was members of the legal profession that eventually returned the state to order and peace. Such is the importance of our noble profession to the stability of our democracy and society.”
Ajulo shared his inspiration to study law:
“This reinforces the timeless saying that the pen is mightier than the sword.”
He elaborated on the theme of a utilitarian judiciary:
“A utilitarian judiciary is one that delivers justice that is not only legally sound but socially beneficial. It is a call for a judicial system that transcends technicalities and embodies accessibility, efficiency, transparency and public trust.”
He encouraged collaboration among stakeholders:
“For the judiciary to fulfill its utilitarian purpose, collaboration is needed.”
Ajulo outlined the responsibilities of various stakeholders, stating:
“The bench must continue to uphold courage, integrity and impartiality. The courtroom must be a sanctuary of justice.”
He also highlighted the role of the executive:
“The Executive Arm, which I represent, is sworn to protect and guarantee judicial independence, uphold and respect the rule of law and judicial pronouncements, provide adequate infrastructure, and ensure that the course of justice is never hindered by logistics, indifference, or neglect.”
He called on the legislature to enact relevant laws:
“The Legislature must enact laws that reflect contemporary realities and strengthen the administration of justice.”
Ajulo referenced Ondo State as a model of progress:
“In Ondo State, under the visionary leadership of his Excellency, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, the administration has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the rule of law, judicial reform and institutional development.”
He concluded by reaffirming the role of lawyers:
“As we celebrate this Law Week, let us all renew our collective purpose as custodians of justice. Lawyers must remain the conscience of the nation, the advocates of the voiceless, and the guardians of truth and conscience. We must defend the dignity of our profession, especially in a time when public trust in both the Bar and our institutions stands fragile and is steadily ebbing away.”
Ajulo commended the work of the NBA Akure Branch:
“I once again commend the NBA Akure Branch for sustaining the intellectual culture that keeps our profession vibrant and relevant.”
He ended his remarks with a call to action:
“Thank you and God bless you all.”
